Creamy Lemon Orzo is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that combines the rich, creamy texture of orzo with the zesty flavours of lemon and fresh herbs. Perfect as a side dish or a light main course, this recipe is a wonderful way to elevate simple ingredients into a comforting and elegant meal.
Looking for other yummy orzo recipes? You'll love my Black Garlic Orzo or my Leek and Feta Orzo Pasta Salad.
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Why you need to make this Creamy Lemon Orzo recipe
- Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in under 20 minutes, making it perfect for a busy weeknight.
- Comforting and Fresh: The creamy orzo paired with the zesty lemon provides a comforting yet refreshing taste.
- Versatile: This dish can be enjoyed as a main course or as a side dish to complement a variety of proteins.
Ingredients
- Orzo: A small pasta that cooks quickly and absorbs flavours well.
- Garlic: Adds aromatic depth and enhances the overall flavour.
- Onion powder: Provides a subtle, savoury base without the need for fresh onions.
- Butter: Adds richness and a silky texture to the dish.
- Chicken stock: Infuses the orzo with a rich, savoury flavour.
- Thickened cream: Provides a creamy, luxurious texture.
- Lemon: Adds a bright, zesty flavour that balances the richness.
- Parmesan: Brings a nutty, salty flavour that complements the creaminess.
- Basil or dill: Adds a fresh, herbal note to finish the dish.
- Sea salt flakes: Enhances and balances all the flavours.
See recipe card for quantities.
Hint: Stir the orzo frequently to prevent it from sticking to the pan and ensure even cooking.
Substitutions
- Vegetable stock instead of chicken stock for a vegetarian version.
- Half-and-half instead of thickened cream for a lighter option.
- Grated pecorino instead of parmesan for a different cheese flavour.
Variations
- Add Vegetables: Stir in spinach, peas, or roasted cherry tomatoes for extra nutrition and colour.
- Protein Boost: Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu to make it a more substantial meal.
- Herb Variation: Use fresh parsley or tarragon instead of basil or dill for a different herbal profile.
Storage
Store any leftover Creamy Lemon Orzo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken stock or water to maintain the creamy texture. Avoid freezing, as the cream sauce may separate when thawed.
Top tip
If the orzo absorbs too much liquid and becomes too thick, add a bit more stock or water to achieve the desired consistency.
FAQ
- Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes, other small pasta shapes like small shells can work, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- How do I store leftovers? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Can I make this dish ahead of time? It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare it ahead and reheat gently, adding a splash of stock or water to loosen the consistency.
Related
Looking for other recipes like this? Try these:
Creamy Lemon Orzo
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo
- 4 garlic cloves minced
- 2 tablespoon onion powder
- 2 tablespoon butter salted
- 2 cups/500ml chicken stock
- ⅓ cup thickened cream
- 1 lemon
- ⅓ cup parmesan grated
- 2 tablespoon basil or dill, thinly sliced
- sea salt flakes
Instructions
- Bring a large pan to medium heat and melt the butter.
- Add the garlic and onion powder with a pinch of salt and sauté for 1 - 2 minutes.
- Add the orzo and chicken stock to the pan and mix. Let the orzo slowly cook and absorb the stock, stirring occasionally to ensure the orzo doesn't stick.
- After 6 - 8 minutes the orzo will 80% cooked. Add the zest of half the lemon and the juice of the whole lemon, the cream and the parmesan and stir through. Continue to cook until orzo is just cooked enough then turn off the heat.
- Transfer to serving bowls, top off with an extra drizzle of olive oil, extra parmesan and the basil. Enjoy!
Notes
- Stir Frequently: Stir the orzo frequently to prevent it from sticking to the pan and ensure even cooking.
- Adjust Consistency: If the orzo absorbs too much liquid and becomes too thick, add a bit more stock or water to achieve the desired consistency.
Ashley
I loooove this recipe!!! I’ve made it a few times now and it just gets better every time! So delicious.
Cassie
I made this for dinner for me and my husband and found myself scraping the pot to get every last piece of orzo! So, so good!!
Sarah
sooo glad you enjoyed!!! thanks so much for the lovely review xx