Description
Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Peas
Ingredients
1 cup orzo pasta
1 tbsp olive oil or butter
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
½ cup heavy cream
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup frozen peas (thawed)
½ tsp salt (or to taste)
¼ tsp black pepper
Optional: Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish
Directions
Toast the orzo: Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the orzo and sauté for 2-3 minutes until lightly golden.
Cook the orzo: Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth. Stir and bring to a simmer. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Make it creamy: Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and thawed peas. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the mixture is creamy.
Season: Add salt and pepper to taste.
Serve: Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley and serve warm as a side dish or a light main course.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: ~300 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
1. Toast the Orzo: In a medium skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the dry orzo pasta and cook, stirring frequently, for 2-3 minutes until it turns a light golden brown and smells nutty. This step is crucial for flavor.
2. Add Aromatics: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
3. Simmer the Orzo: Pour in the broth, stir to combine, and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
4. Create the Creamy Sauce: Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan, and thawed peas. Continue to cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy and cohesive.
5. Final Seasoning: Remove from heat. Taste and season with salt and pepper. The Parmesan is salty, so adjust carefully.
6. Garnish and Serve: Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a pop of color and freshness.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile dish can be served as a main or a side. For a complete meal, pair it with a simple green salad and crusty bread. It’s an excellent side for roasted chicken, grilled shrimp, or seared salmon. For a vegetarian main, top with a fried egg or roasted vegetables like cherry tomatoes and asparagus.
How-to Summary
Toast orzo in oil until golden. Cook garlic briefly, then simmer orzo in broth until tender. Finish by stirring in cream, Parmesan, and peas until creamy. Season and garnish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use milk instead of heavy cream? Yes, but the sauce will be less rich and thick. For a lighter version, half-and-half is a good substitute. Avoid skim milk as it may curdle.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce, stirring frequently.
Can I make this dish ahead of time? It’s best served fresh. If made ahead, the orzo will continue to absorb liquid. Reheat with added liquid to restore creaminess.
What can I use instead of peas? Try other quick-cooking vegetables like chopped spinach, asparagus pieces, or sun-dried tomatoes. Add them when you stir in the cream.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly? We do not recommend freezing, as the dairy-based sauce can separate and the orzo may become mushy upon thawing.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the toasting step: This adds a deep, nutty flavor that is the foundation of the dish.
- Using pre-grated Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly. Always grate your own from a block.
- Overcooking the orzo: Cook just until al dente in the broth stage, as it will continue to soften when you add the cream.
- Adding cold peas: Ensure peas are thawed to prevent them from cooling down the dish and halting the cooking process.
Conclusion
Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Peas is the ultimate 20-minute comfort food, perfectly balancing rich, cheesy flavor with bright pops of pea. Its simplicity belies its impressive taste, making it a reliable go-to for busy weeknights or elegant enough for company. Mastering the few key techniques outlined here—toasting the orzo and using fresh Parmesan—will guarantee a restaurant-quality result every time. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a cherished staple in your culinary repertoire.