Parmesan and Basil Orzo
Creamy, comforting, and bursting with fresh flavors, Parmesan and Basil Orzo is the perfect side dish or light meal that comes together in just 25 minutes. This recipe combines tender orzo pasta toasted for a nutty undertone, infused with savory chicken or vegetable broth, and finished with velvety heavy cream. The rich, cheesy notes of Parmesan blend harmoniously with the bright, herbal kick of fresh basil, creating a dish that's both elegant and easy to prepare. With a simple one-pot technique, minimal prep, and a garnishing option of extra Parmesan and basil for flair, this recipe strikes a delicious balance between indulgence and simplicity. Ideal for weeknight dinners or as a show-stopping accompaniment, it's a must-try for pasta lovers everywhere.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 0.25 cup heavy cream
- 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 0.25 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
Instructions
Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Add the orzo to the pan and stir for 1-2 minutes to lightly toast the pasta.
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped basil leaves until well combined.
Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper, adjusting to taste.
Remove from heat and allow the dish to sit for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly before serving.
Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh basil, if desired, and serve warm.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
309 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 12.5 g | 16% | |
| Saturated Fat | 5.7 g | 29% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 28 mg | 9% | |
| Sodium | 848 mg | 37% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 38.6 g | 14% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.8 g | 7% | |
| Total Sugars | 1.4 g | ||
| Protein | 11.4 g | 23% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 132 mg | 10% | |
| Iron | 1.2 mg | 7% | |
| Potassium | 107 mg | 2% | |
*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.
