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Garlic Parmesan Orzo Pasta

Garlic Parmesan Orzo Pasta: Comfort in Every Creamy Bite

Garlic Parmesan Orzo Pasta is a quick and creamy side dish that brings comforting flavors and nostalgia to any meal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Best Recipe Ideas
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Orzo
  • 1 cup Orzo Pasta Opt for whole grain or gluten-free varieties as alternatives.
  • 4 cups Water or Chicken Broth Broth offers a richer taste compared to plain water.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Essential for seasoning the cooking water.
For the Garlic and Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Can be substituted with butter.
  • 2 cloves Minced Garlic Fresh garlic is best for aroma and taste.
  • 1 tablespoon Unsalted Butter Swap for additional olive oil for a dairy-free version.
For Finishing Touches
  • 1/2 cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese For a lighter version, use nutritional yeast.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley Optional, adds color and freshness.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Skillet
  • colander

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water or chicken broth to a rolling boil over high heat. Stir in 1 teaspoon of salt to enhance the flavor.
  2. Add 1 cup of orzo pasta to the boiling liquid, and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Drain the orzo, reserving ½ cup of the pasta water.
  3. In a skillet, pour in 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until golden and fragrant.
  4. Stir in 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter until melted, combining it with the garlic to create a rich base.
  5. Gently mix in the drained orzo pasta, adding reserved pasta water gradually until it reaches a creamy consistency.
  6. Sprinkle in ½ cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and stir until it melts, creating a velvety sauce. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
  7. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 42gProtein: 10gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 450mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 1mg

Notes

For best results, use fresh garlic and quality Parmesan cheese.

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