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One Pot Lemon Orzo pasta

Delicious One Pot Lemon Orzo Pasta for Effortless Weeknight Dinners

Enjoy a creamy bowl of One Pot Lemon Orzo Pasta, perfect for weeknight dinners.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course One-Pot Meals
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 servings
Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

  • large skillet

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta

  • 2 tablespoons Salted Butter Can substitute with olive oil for a dairy-free option.
  • 1.5 cups Uncooked Orzo Pasta ~278 grams; other small pasta types like ditalini can be used.
  • 2.5 cups Low Sodium Vegetable or Chicken Broth Adds depth and moisture; substitute with water for milder flavor.

For the Flavor

  • 2 cloves Garlic Finely minced; can use garlic powder in a pinch (1½ teaspoons).
  • 0.25 teaspoon Fresh Cracked Black Pepper Add white pepper for a milder taste.
  • 0.5 teaspoon Salt For seasoning; adjust based on broth's sodium content.

For the Creamy Base

  • 0.33 cup Cream Any kind; light cream or non-dairy alternatives can be used.
  • 2 tablespoons Grated Parmesan Adds nutty flavor; swap with nutritional yeast for a vegan option.

For Garnish and Brightness

  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley Provides freshness and color; can use basil or cilantro.
  • 1 lemon Juice Essential for tanginess; add zest for extra citrus punch.

Instructions
 

Step-by-Step Instructions

  • Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat for about 1 minute.
  • Add the uncooked orzo and minced garlic, stirring for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  • Pour in the broth, salt, and pepper; bring mixture to a rolling boil for 3-4 minutes.
  • Reduce heat, cover, and let simmer for about 10 minutes until liquid is mostly absorbed.
  • Stir in the cream, Parmesan, and parsley, mixing for 1-2 minutes until creamy.
  • Squeeze in the lemon juice to taste, stirring to combine.

Notes

For added nutrition, mix in cooked chicken, shrimp, or seasonal veggies. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 42gProtein: 10gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 4.5gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 450mgPotassium: 230mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 1mg
Keyword creamy pasta, Easy Dinner, One Pot Lemon Orzo pasta, one pot meals, pasta recipes, weeknight meals
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