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If you love comforting meals that feel like a warm hug on a plate, then you’re going to adore this Creamy Lemon Parmesan Orzo Pasta Recipe. It’s a delightful blend of tender orzo pasta bathed in a velvety sauce made from rich parmesan cheese, bright lemon zest, and fresh basil. Every bite bursts with zesty freshness balanced by luscious creaminess, creating a dish that’s as elegant as it is simple. Whether you’re cooking for a weekday dinner or impressing friends with a cozy gathering, this recipe will quickly become one of your all-time favorites.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This dish keeps things straightforward yet flavorful, relying on a handful of essential ingredients that each add their own magic. From the aromatic shallots to the tangy lemon juice, every component plays a vital role in building the perfect texture, taste, and color of the pasta.
- Avocado oil: Delivers a mild, buttery flavor while keeping the dish light and healthy.
- Medium shallot (finely chopped): Provides a subtle sweetness and depth as the base flavor.
- Orzo pasta: The star of the dish, with its petite, rice-like shape that soaks up all the creamy goodness.
- Chicken stock (or veggie stock): Adds savory richness and moisture to cook the orzo perfectly.
- Unsalted butter: Boosts the creaminess and adds a gentle richness without overpowering.
- Heavy cream: Essential for the luscious, silky mouthfeel that makes this pasta so irresistible.
- Lemon (zested and juiced): Introduces a bright, citrusy punch that lifts the entire dish.
- Parmesan cheese: Offers a sharp, nutty flavor that melts seamlessly into the cream.
- Fresh basil (chopped): Brings a fragrant, herbaceous note and vibrant green color to finish things off.
How to Make Creamy Lemon Parmesan Orzo Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Shallots in Avocado Oil
Begin by heating a shallow pan over medium-low heat. Add the avocado oil along with the finely chopped shallots. Cooking them slowly for about two minutes allows the shallots to soften and release their sweet aroma without browning, creating a delicate flavor base that will permeate through the pasta.
Step 2: Toast Orzo and Simmer in Stock
Next, stir in the orzo pasta and toast it gently for five minutes. Keep it moving frequently so it doesn’t stick or burn; this toasting step brings out a lovely nutty undertone. Pour in the chicken or vegetable stock and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let the orzo cook uncovered for about 10 minutes, stirring often to ensure even cooking and prevent it from drying out.
Step 3: Stir in Butter and Cream for Silky Texture
Once the orzo has absorbed most of the stock and is tender, add the unsalted butter and heavy cream. Continue to cook and stir for another 3 to 5 minutes until the pasta reaches a soft, creamy consistency. This step is crucial for achieving that luxurious texture that defines this Creamy Lemon Parmesan Orzo Pasta Recipe.
Step 4: Finish with Lemon, Parmesan, and Basil
Remove your pan from the heat and immediately stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, Parmesan cheese, and chopped fresh basil. This final mixture blends freshness, sharpness, and herbal fragrance into the creamy base. Give it a good mix so every bite is bursting with flavor, and then it’s ready to serve alongside your favorite protein or enjoy on its own.
How to Serve Creamy Lemon Parmesan Orzo Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the dish visually and taste-wise, sprinkle some freshly cracked black pepper and an extra grating of Parmesan cheese on top. A few whole basil leaves or a light drizzle of olive oil can add an inviting finish and a pop of color that makes it impossible to resist.
Side Dishes
This orzo pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, seared shrimp, or roasted vegetables, adding a creamy, zesty complement to a variety of proteins. A crisp green salad or garlic roasted asparagus can bring a refreshing contrast to the creamy texture and balance the lemony brightness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming presentation, serve the Creamy Lemon Parmesan Orzo Pasta Recipe in shallow bowls garnished with edible flowers or microgreens. You can also stuff roasted bell peppers or portobello caps with the orzo to create a stunning main course that looks as special as it tastes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover orzo pasta keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors tend to meld even more, making it a great option for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Freezing
Freezing is possible but not ideal since the texture of the cream sauce can change. If you want to freeze it, place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers and consume within one month for the best results. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. You may want to add a splash of chicken stock or cream to revive the creamy consistency if it appears thick or dry.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta instead of orzo?
While this Creamy Lemon Parmesan Orzo Pasta Recipe is designed specifically for orzo to create that delightful texture, small pasta shapes like acini di pepe or Israeli couscous can work as alternatives. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure tenderness.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Absolutely! Simply swap out the chicken stock for vegetable stock, and you’ll maintain the full depth of flavor while keeping the dish vegetarian-friendly.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make a dairy-free version, use dairy-free butter and substitute the heavy cream with coconut or cashew cream. Nutritional yeast can be added to mimic the cheesy flavor of Parmesan.
How do I know when the orzo is cooked perfectly?
Orzo should be tender yet slightly firm to the bite, not mushy. Taste it frequently during simmering starting around the 8-minute mark to catch the perfect texture.
Can I add protein directly to the pasta?
Yes! You can stir in cooked chicken, shrimp, or even crispy bacon pieces at the end of cooking to turn this side dish into a full meal that’s bursting with flavor and protein.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this Creamy Lemon Parmesan Orzo Pasta Recipe a try soon because it’s one of those dishes that makes you feel cozy and sophisticated all at once. It’s quick, rewarding, and packed with vibrant flavors that make every mouthful sing. Trust me, once it becomes a staple in your kitchen, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!
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Creamy Lemon Parmesan Orzo Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 4.5 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This creamy orzo pasta recipe delivers a rich, comforting dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful side. Toasted orzo is simmered in chicken stock and finished with butter, heavy cream, lemon, parmesan, and fresh basil for a luscious, silky texture bursting with bright, savory flavors.
Ingredients
Orzo Pasta Base
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil
- 1 medium shallot, finely chopped
- 8 oz orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken stock (or vegetable stock for a vegetarian option)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Finishing Ingredients
- ⅓ cup heavy cream
- ½ lemon (zested and juiced)
- 1 ½ cup parmesan cheese
- ½ cup fresh basil, chopped
Instructions
- Sauté Shallots: Heat a shallow pan over medium-low heat. Add the avocado oil and finely chopped shallots. Cook them gently for about 2 minutes until they are fragrant and translucent, avoiding any browning.
- Toast Orzo: Add the orzo pasta to the pan. Toast it by stirring frequently for about 5 minutes, taking care not to burn the pasta. This step enhances the nuttiness of the orzo.
- Simmer Orzo in Stock: Pour in the chicken stock and bring it to a simmer. Let the orzo cook uncovered for about 10 minutes, stirring frequently, until it absorbs most of the liquid and softens.
- Add Butter and Cream: Stir in the unsalted butter and heavy cream. Continue cooking the orzo for an additional 3 to 5 minutes, stirring often, until it becomes creamy and tender. Taste to ensure the pasta is fully cooked.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the pan from heat. Stir in the lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, parmesan cheese, and chopped basil. Mix thoroughly to combine all the flavors. Serve warm, pairing it with your favorite protein for a complete meal.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken stock with vegetable stock and ensure parmesan is vegetarian-friendly.
- Adjust the amount of heavy cream to your desired creaminess.
- Fresh basil can be replaced with parsley or thyme if preferred.
- To make this dish lighter, reduce butter and heavy cream quantities or substitute with a lower-fat dairy alternative.
- Stirring often is crucial to prevent the orzo from sticking to the pan and burning.
