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Garlic Butter Orzo with Parmesan

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A quick and easy homemade side dish featuring orzo pasta toasted and simmered in garlic butter and broth, finished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a creamy, cheesy texture.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup orzo pasta (about 170 grams)
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 large garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 ½ cups chicken or vegetable broth (600 ml)
  • ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (about 50 grams)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter.
  2. Add the dry orzo and toast, stirring frequently, until the orzo turns a light golden brown and smells nutty, about 3 to 5 minutes.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  4. Slowly add 2 ½ cups (600 ml) of chicken or vegetable broth.
  5. Increase heat to medium-high and bring to a gentle boil.
  6. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover with a lid, and let it simmer for 10 to 12 minutes until the orzo is tender but still slightly firm.
  7. Remove the pan from heat and stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter until melted.
  8. Fold in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the orzo becomes creamy and well coated.
  9. Taste and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed.
  10. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for garnish if desired.
  11. Serve immediately while hot.

Notes

Toast the orzo before boiling to enhance nutty flavor. Use freshly grated Parmesan for best melting and flavor. Stir constantly when cooking garlic to prevent burning. If orzo thickens after resting, loosen with warm broth or water before serving. For dairy-free, swap butter with olive oil and Parmesan with nutritional yeast. For gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta shaped like rice or small grains.

Nutrition

Keywords: garlic butter orzo, Parmesan orzo, easy side dish, quick orzo recipe, creamy orzo, garlic pasta side, homemade orzo

Find it online: https://blairrecipes.com/garlic-butter-orzo-with-parmesan-recipe-easy-homemade-side-dish/