Toasted Sesame Orzo
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this irresistible Toasted Sesame Orzo, a quick and easy side dish that’s packed with bold, nutty flavors. This recipe features golden-browned orzo pasta infused with the rich aroma of sesame oil and garlic, simmered to perfection in savory chicken or vegetable broth. A final touch of soy sauce, scallions, and toasted sesame seeds adds layers of umami and a delightful crunch, while a squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens up the dish. Perfect for pairing with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or as a standalone vegetarian option, this 30-minute dish is as versatile as it is delicious. Optimize your mealtime with a recipe that combines convenience, flavor, and flair!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
- 2 stalks scallions (thinly sliced)
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional)
Instructions
Heat a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of sesame oil and the unsalted butter.
Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
Stir in the orzo pasta, coating it in the butter and oil. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the orzo turns golden brown and develops a toasty aroma.
Carefully pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring it to a boil.
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let the orzo simmer for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Continue cooking until most of the liquid is absorbed and the orzo is tender.
Stir in the soy sauce, salt, black pepper, and the remaining 1 tablespoon of sesame oil. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.
Remove the pan from heat and mix in the toasted sesame seeds and scallions, reserving a small amount of each for garnish.
If desired, stir in the lemon juice for a bright, tangy flavor to finish the dish.
Transfer the orzo to a serving dish, garnish with the reserved sesame seeds and scallions, and serve warm.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
305 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 13.4 g | 17% | |
| Saturated Fat | 3.3 g | 17% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.9 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 10 mg | 3% | |
| Sodium | 726 mg | 32% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 40.3 g | 15% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.4 g | 8% | |
| Total Sugars | 1.8 g | ||
| Protein | 8.4 g | 17% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 43 mg | 3% | |
| Iron | 1.6 mg | 9% | |
| Potassium | 130 mg | 3% | |
*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.
