Description
Toasted orzo with parmesan is a quick, easy, and indulgently creamy pasta side dish featuring perfectly toasted orzo pasta for a nutty depth, combined with butter, garlic, and freshly grated parmesan cheese. This comforting recipe is versatile enough to serve as a side or a satisfying vegetarian main, offering a rich and velvety texture that reheats beautifully and can be customized with herbs, proteins, or citrus brightness.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta (small rice-shaped pasta)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 1/2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh herbs (optional, such as parsley or thyme) for garnish
Instructions
- Toast the Orzo: Heat the butter and olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the dry orzo and stir continuously for about 5 minutes until the orzo turns golden brown and releases a nutty aroma. This key step develops the distinctive toasted flavor.
- Add Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the toasted orzo and cook for 30 seconds to 1 minute, stirring constantly to soften the garlic without browning or burning it, creating a fragrant savory base.
- Slow Simmer in Broth: Gradually pour in the chicken or vegetable broth while stirring frequently. Lower the heat and simmer gently, allowing the orzo to absorb the liquid fully, resulting in tender, flavorful grains.
- Stir in Parmesan: Once the orzo is cooked to a tender perfection, remove the pan from heat. Stir in the freshly grated parmesan cheese until creamy and fully combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish and Serve: Fold in chopped fresh herbs if using. Serve immediately while warm and creamy for the best texture and flavor experience.
Notes
- Toast the orzo slowly over medium heat to avoid burning and ensure an even nutty flavor.
- Use freshly grated parmesan cheese for superior melting and taste compared to pre-grated varieties.
- Cook the orzo in broth instead of water to add depth and rich savory notes.
- Stir gently but frequently during simmering to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Serve immediately for the creamiest texture; leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated with added broth or cream to restore creaminess.
- For vegan variations, substitute the broth with vegetable broth and parmesan with vegan cheese or nutritional yeast.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 recipe (about 3/4 cup)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 20mg