Lemon Dill Orzo Pilaf
Brighten up your mealtime with this zesty and aromatic Lemon Dill Orzo Pilaf! This easy-to-make side dish combines tender, golden-toasted orzo pasta cooked in savory chicken or vegetable stock with the refreshing flavors of fresh lemon zest, tangy lemon juice, and fragrant dill. A hint of garlic and onion brings depth to the dish, while optional Parmesan cheese adds a touch of creaminess. Perfect as a quick complement to grilled chicken, seafood, or roasted vegetables, this lemony pilaf is ready in just 30 minutes and bursting with fresh, herbaceous flavors. Whether served warm or at room temperature, this versatile and vibrant dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for weeknight dinners or festive gatherings.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1.5 cups Orzo pasta
- 2 tablespoons Unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon Olive oil
- 1 medium Yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 3 cups Low-sodium chicken or vegetable stock
- 1 teaspoon Lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons Lemon juice, freshly squeezed
- 2 tablespoons Fresh dill, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon Fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper
- 0.25 cup Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
In a large, deep skillet or saucepan, melt the butter with the olive oil over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until softened and translucent.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, until fragrant.
Add the orzo to the pan and toast for 2-3 minutes, stirring often, until the pasta is lightly golden.
Pour in the chicken or vegetable stock and bring the mixture to a boil.
Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, chopped dill, and parsley (if using).
Season with salt and black pepper, adjusting to taste.
For an extra touch, sprinkle the pilaf with grated Parmesan cheese just before serving.
Serve warm as a side dish and enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
416 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 13.5 g | 17% | |
| Saturated Fat | 6.0 g | 30% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 19 mg | 6% | |
| Sodium | 737 mg | 32% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 62.3 g | 23% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.5 g | 12% | |
| Total Sugars | 3.5 g | ||
| Protein | 14.2 g | 28% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.2 mcg | 1% | |
| Calcium | 139 mg | 11% | |
| Iron | 1.9 mg | 10% | |
| Potassium | 199 mg | 4% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
