Orzo and Broccoli Pilaf
Transform your weeknight dinner with this vibrant and hearty Orzo and Broccoli Pilaf, a one-pan dish that combines the nutty richness of toasted orzo pasta with the tender bite of blanched broccoli florets. Cooked in a flavorful broth and infused with aromatic garlic, onion, and a hint of lemon zest, this easy recipe delivers comfort and freshness in every bite. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese adds creamy decadence, while fresh parsley brightens up the dish for a crowd-pleasing finish. Ready in just 30 minutes, this vegetarian-friendly pilaf is perfect as a standalone meal or a versatile side dish. Easy to make, endlessly satisfying, and packed with wholesome ingredients, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 small (finely chopped) yellow onion
- 2 minced garlic cloves
- 2.5 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 0.5 cup (grated) parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 0.5 teaspoons salt
- 0.25 teaspoons black pepper
- 2 tablespoons (chopped) fresh parsley
Instructions
Bring a medium pot of water to a boil and blanch the broccoli florets for 2 minutes. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the orzo pasta to the skillet and toast it for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until lightly golden.
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and season with salt and black pepper. Stir to combine.
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, reduce the heat to low, and cover the skillet. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed.
Gently fold in the blanched broccoli florets and grated parmesan cheese. Mix well until the cheese is melted and evenly distributed.
Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the lemon zest and fresh parsley for a burst of freshness.
Taste and adjust seasonings if needed. Serve warm and enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1389 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 59.3 g | 76% | |
| Saturated Fat | 20.6 g | 103% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 76 mg | 25% | |
| Sodium | 3715 mg | 162% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 173.2 g | 63% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 17.2 g | 61% | |
| Total Sugars | 10.1 g | ||
| Protein | 52.8 g | 106% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 639 mg | 49% | |
| Iron | 9.9 mg | 55% | |
| Potassium | 306 mg | 7% | |
*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.
