Description
A creamy and flavorful side dish, Garlic Parmesan Orzo combines tender orzo pasta with garlic, butter, and Parmesan cheese for a comforting and savory meal accompaniment.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the orzo and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently to lightly toast the pasta.
- Pour in the broth and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese and heavy cream if using. Mix until creamy and well combined.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Remove from heat and garnish with chopped parsley before serving, if desired.
Notes
- Use low-sodium broth to better control the salt level.
- Add cooked chicken or vegetables to make it a complete meal.
- For a lighter version, omit the cream and use reduced-fat cheese.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 25mg