Orzo with Lemon and Herbs
Bright, zesty, and herbaceous, Orzo with Lemon and Herbs is the ultimate quick and easy dish to elevate your dinner table. This Mediterranean-inspired recipe combines tender orzo pasta with a vibrant mix of fresh parsley, dill, and basil, all brought to life with fragrant lemon zest and juice. A hint of garlic and a drizzle of olive oil create the perfect base for the citrusy-herb harmony, while optional Parmesan cheese adds a creamy touch of decadence. Ready in just 25 minutes, this versatile dish shines as a light main course or a refreshing side, perfect for pairing with grilled vegetables or seafood. Quick to prepare, packed with fresh flavors, and endlessly adaptable, it'll become your go-to for busy weeknights and elegant gatherings alike.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1.5 cups Orzo pasta
- 4 cups Water
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 3 tablespoons Olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons Lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons Fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon Fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon Fresh basil, chopped
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 0.25 teaspoon Black pepper
- 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)
Instructions
Bring 4 cups of water to a boil in a medium-sized pot. Add 1 teaspoon of salt and the orzo pasta. 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, prepare the lemon and herb mixture. In a large skillet, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, parsley, dill, and basil. Cook for 1 minute, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Add the cooked orzo to the skillet and toss to combine with the lemon-herb mixture.
Season with black pepper and additional salt if needed. Stir well to ensure the orzo is evenly coated.
If desired, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving for added richness.
Serve warm as a side dish or a light main course. Garnish with additional fresh herbs if desired.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1974 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 80.7 g | 103% | |
| Saturated Fat | 27.9 g | 140% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 4.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 95 mg | 32% | |
| Sodium | 4198 mg | 183% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 236.9 g | 86% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 17.9 g | 64% | |
| Total Sugars | 6.4 g | ||
| Protein | 83.6 g | 167% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 1476 mg | 114% | |
| Iron | 12.0 mg | 67% | |
| Potassium | 294 mg | 6% | |
*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.
