Description
Lemon Orzo Pasta is a wonderfully refreshing dish that combines the delicate texture of orzo with the vibrant zing of fresh lemon. This quick and easy recipe takes just under 30 minutes to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. The bright citrus flavor paired with fresh herbs creates a delightful medley that’s perfect on its own or as a tasty side dish. You can easily customize it by adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or seasonal vegetables for an extra boost of flavor and nutrition.
Ingredients
1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
2 medium-sized fresh lemons (juice and zest)
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
¼ cup chopped fresh basil
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
Cook orzo in salted boiling water until al dente (8–10 minutes). Drain, reserving half a cup of cooking water, and rinse under cold water.
In a bowl, whisk together lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Combine cooked orzo with the dressing and fold in parsley and basil. Adjust seasoning as desired.
Serve warm or chilled.
Notes
To enhance creaminess, add reserved cooking water gradually until desired consistency is reached.
Experiment with other herbs like dill or mint for unique flavors.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 210
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g