Description
1 cup orzo pasta
2 tbsp olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp lemon zest
2 tbsp lemon juice
½ cup crumbled feta cheese
¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and black pepper to taste
Directions:
Cook the orzo according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Stir in the cooked orzo, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Toss well to combine and heat through.
Remove from heat and stir in crumbled feta cheese and fresh parsley.
Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve warm and enjoy!
Prep Time: 5 minutes Cooking Time: 10 minutes Total Time: 15 minutes Kcal: 210 per serving Servings: 4 servings
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect Lemon Feta Orzo every time.
- Cook the Orzo: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package directions (typically 8-10 minutes) until al dente. Drain well and set aside. Avoid rinsing the pasta, as the starch helps the sauce cling.
- Sauté the Aromatics: While the orzo cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant but not browned.
- Combine and Warm: Add the drained orzo directly to the skillet with the garlic and oil. Stir in the lemon zest and lemon juice, tossing everything together until the orzo is evenly coated and heated through, about 2 minutes.
- Finish with Fresh Ingredients: Remove the skillet from the heat. Immediately stir in the crumbled feta cheese and chopped fresh parsley. The residual heat will slightly soften the feta without melting it completely.
- Season and Serve: Taste the dish and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. Remember that feta is salty, so adjust accordingly. Serve immediately while warm.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile orzo dish pairs beautifully with various proteins and vegetables. For a light meal, serve it alongside grilled shrimp, baked salmon, or lemon-herb chicken. To make it a heartier vegetarian entrée, mix in roasted vegetables like cherry tomatoes, zucchini, or asparagus. It also works wonderfully as a side dish at barbecues or as part of a Mediterranean-inspired mezze platter with olives, hummus, and pita bread.
How-to Summary
In summary, this 15-minute dish involves cooking orzo, sautéing garlic in olive oil, and combining them with lemon zest and juice. Finish by stirring in feta and parsley off the heat, then season to taste.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, but for best texture, prepare it up to a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to refresh it, and add a fresh squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
What can I use instead of feta cheese?
For a similar tangy and salty profile, try crumbled goat cheese (chèvre) or ricotta salata. For a dairy-free version, a good vegan feta or nutritional yeast can provide a cheesy flavor.
Is orzo a pasta or rice?
Orzo is a type of pasta that is shaped like a large grain of rice. It is made from semolina flour, just like many other pastas.
Can I add protein to this recipe?
Absolutely. Stir in cooked chickpeas, shredded rotisserie chicken, or flaked canned tuna for a complete one-pot meal.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat, adding a little liquid to prevent it from drying out.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Garlic: Sauté the garlic just until fragrant. Burnt garlic will turn bitter and ruin the dish’s delicate flavor.
- Rinsing the Cooked Orzo: This washes away the starch that helps the lemony oil and cheese adhere to the pasta, resulting in a less cohesive dish.
- Adding Feta on the Heat: Always stir in the feta cheese after removing the skillet from the burner. High heat can cause it to become greasy and melt unevenly.
- Skipping the Lemon Zest: The zest contains potent essential oils that provide a vibrant, fresh lemon flavor the juice alone cannot achieve.
Conclusion
This Lemon Feta Orzo is the epitome of a quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal. With its bright citrus notes, creamy salty feta, and fresh herbs, it’s a simple dish that delivers impressive taste. By following the step-by-step guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a versatile staple perfect for busy weeknights or elegant gatherings. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a taste of the Mediterranean in just 15 minutes.