Orzo and Corn Off the Cob
Bright, fresh, and bursting with summertime flavors, this Orzo and Corn Off the Cob recipe is a versatile dish that's perfect as a light main course or a crowd-pleasing side. Featuring tender orzo pasta and sweet corn kernels sautéed to golden perfection, this recipe combines zesty lemon, aromatic garlic, and fresh herbs like parsley and basil for a vibrant medley of tastes. A simple olive oil dressing ties everything together, while optional grated Parmesan adds a touch of indulgence. Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish can be served warm, chilled, or at room temperature, making it ideal for potlucks and easy weeknight dinners. Packed with seasonal produce and simple ingredients, this recipe is a celebration of summer in a bowl! Keywords: Orzo and corn recipe, fresh summer pasta salad, easy side dish with corn.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1.5 cups orzo pasta
- 2.5 cups fresh corn (about 3 ears)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 whole lemon (juice and zest)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 0.25 cups fresh parsley (chopped)
- 0.25 cups fresh basil (chopped)
- 0.5 teaspoons salt
- 0.25 teaspoons black pepper
- 0.5 cups Parmesan cheese (optional, grated)
- 8 cups water (for boiling)
Instructions
Bring 8 cups of water to a boil in a large pot, adding a pinch of salt to the water.
Cook the orzo according to the package instructions, typically about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain and set aside.
While the orzo is cooking, cut the kernels off the cobs of corn. You should have about 2.5 cups of kernels.
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the corn kernels and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender and slightly golden. Remove from heat.
In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil, the juice and zest of 1 lemon, the minced garlic, salt, and black pepper to create the dressing.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked orzo, sautéed corn, chopped parsley, chopped basil, and the prepared dressing. Toss well to combine.
Taste the dish and adjust the seasonings with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice, as desired.
If using Parmesan cheese, sprinkle it over the top before serving for added richness and flavor.
Serve warm, at room temperature, or chilled, depending on your preference. Enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
2542 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 89.1 g | 114% | |
| Saturated Fat | 29.2 g | 146% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 4.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 48 mg | 16% | |
| Sodium | 3060 mg | 133% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 366.3 g | 133% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 35.3 g | 126% | |
| Total Sugars | 25.6 g | ||
| Protein | 104.7 g | 209% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.2 mcg | 6% | |
| Calcium | 1590 mg | 122% | |
| Iron | 20.6 mg | 114% | |
| Potassium | 2264 mg | 48% | |
*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.
