Creamy Lemon Parmesan Orzo Risotto

• 8 ounces orzo
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Steps

1. 1 In a medium saucepan, bring broth to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
2. 2 Meanwhile, cook orzo in salted boiling water until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
3. 3 Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. 4 Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
5. 5 Stir in the cooked orzo and gradually add the warm broth, about 1/2 cup at a time, stirring frequently until absorbed.
6. 6 Once most of the broth is absorbed, stir in Parmesan, lemon zest, lemon juice, and heavy cream until creamy.
7. 7 Season with salt and pepper to taste, and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
8. 8 Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Equipment

• Large skillet
• Medium saucepan
• Wooden spoon

Variations

• Add roasted butternut squash for a fall twist.
• Stir in peas or diced sun-dried tomatoes for added texture.

Substitutions

• Substitute orzo with Arborio rice for a traditional risotto texture.
• Use vegetable broth for a vegan option.

Pairings

• A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.
• Warm crusty bread for soaking up every last bit of sauce.

Nutrition

Tips

• Keep the broth warm throughout the cooking process to ensure even cooking.
• For a dairy-free version, substitute the Parmesan with nutritional yeast and use almond milk instead of heavy cream.

Storage

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of broth or water to restore creaminess.

Freezing: Freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently with extra broth.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a simple arugula salad and grilled chicken.
• Add sautéed shrimp or scallops for extra protein.

FAQ