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Here’s a simple and delicious recipe for Creamy Orzo with Parmesan and Broccoli! This dish combines tender orzo pasta with creamy sauce, fresh broccoli, and a cheesy, flavorful kick from Parmesan. It’s a great side dish or can be enjoyed as a light meal!
Creamy Orzo with Parmesan and Broccoli Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (200g) orzo pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream (or whole milk for a lighter version)
- 1/2 cup (120ml) chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)
- 1/2 cup (50g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for sautéing the broccoli)
- Lemon zest (optional, for extra freshness)
Instructions:
1. Cook the Orzo:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions, typically about 8-10 minutes, until al dente.
- While the orzo is cooking, blanch the broccoli. In the last 2-3 minutes of orzo cooking, add the broccoli florets to the pot and cook until tender but still bright green.
- Drain both the orzo and broccoli, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water, and set them aside.
2. Make the Creamy Sauce:
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, and let it cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
3. Combine Pasta and Broccoli:
- Add the cooked orzo and broccoli to the skillet with the cream sauce. Stir to combine, ensuring that the orzo and broccoli are well coated with the sauce.
- Gradually add the Parmesan cheese, stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
4. Season and Serve:
- Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Optionally, stir in a bit of lemon zest for extra flavor.
- Serve the creamy orzo with broccoli hot, and garnish with extra grated Parmesan or fresh herbs if desired.
Optional Variations:
- Add protein: You can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even crispy bacon for a more substantial meal.
- Spice it up: If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the dish before serving.
- Use different cheeses: Swap the Parmesan for mozzarella or a blend of cheeses for a different flavor profile.
This Creamy Orzo with Parmesan and Broccoli is a rich, comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion, from a simple weeknight dinner to a special side dish for a holiday meal. Enjoy!
