lemon orzo pasta recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
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The Best lemon orzo pasta recipe

I’m so excited to share this lemon orzo pasta recipe with you all. This dish has been a staple in our household for years, and I just can’t get enough of it.

The combination of bright, citrusy lemon flavor and the comforting warmth of orzo pasta is just perfect for any occasion. My kids love it when I serve it as a quick weeknight dinner, and my husband requests it whenever he’s feeling stressed.

As for me, I just love how easy it is to make and how versatile it is – we can add protein like chicken or shrimp, or keep it vegetarian-friendly with some roasted veggies. The best part?

It’s incredibly healthy, too – orzo is a great source of fiber and protein, and the lemon juice adds a nice boost of vitamin C. Plus, this recipe makes a big batch that’s perfect for meal prep or leftovers for the next day.

My family and I have tried many variations over the years, but this one remains our favorite. It’s a classic take on a Mediterranean staple that never fails to hit the spot.

Whether you’re looking for a simple dinner solution or just want to mix things up in your kitchen, give this recipe a try! It’s sure to become a new favorite in your household just like it has in mine.

Lemon Orzo Pasta

4.8 from 1930 votes

A zesty and comforting lemon orzo pasta dish with a creamy sauce and fresh herbs. Perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight meal.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time15 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time30 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Ingredients

8 oz orzo pasta
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
4 cups whole milk
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp dried parsley
1 tsp dried basil
1/2 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tsp paprika
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup lemon juice
zest of 1 lemon
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

👨‍🍳Directions

1Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat.
2Add orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3Drain and set aside.
4In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
5Add flour and whisk to form a roux.
6Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture turns a light golden color and has a nutty aroma.
7Gradually add milk to the roux, whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
8Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring frequently, until it thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon.
9This should take about 5-7 minutes.
10Add salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, dried basil, dried oregano, dried thyme, paprika, and cayenne pepper to the sauce.
11Stir well to combine and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the spices are fragrant and the sauce has thickened further.
12Stir in Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
13Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
14If the sauce is too thick, add a little more milk to reach your desired consistency.
15Add the cooked orzo pasta to the sauce and toss gently to combine, ensuring that the pasta is well coated.
16If the pasta is too hot, it will absorb too much of the sauce, so allow it to cool slightly before adding it to the sauce.
17Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
18Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
19Serve the lemon orzo pasta hot, while it is still creamy and delicious.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Medium saucepan
Whisk
Wooden spoon

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: You can add cooked chicken or vegetables to the pasta for extra protein or nutrients.

Watch Video Of How Lemon Orzo Pasta Works

This lemon orzo pasta recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or want something special for family gatherings.

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how easy it is to customize with different protein sources and veggies – making it perfect for picky eaters or those who need something tailored to their dietary needs.

And let’s not forget about storage and reheating ideas – simply refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container and reheat with some extra lemon juice and olive oil for a delicious meal any time of day.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Lemon Orzo Pasta

Q: What type of pasta is best for this recipe?

A: You can use any type of short pasta you like, such as bowtie or penne, but orzo is the traditional choice for this recipe because of its nutty flavor and chewy texture.

Q: Can I substitute the lemon juice with something else?

A: While lemon juice is essential to this recipe, you can try substituting it with other citrus juices like lime or orange if you prefer. However, keep in mind that the flavor will be slightly different.

Q: How do I store leftover pasta?

A: You can store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze it for up to two months. When reheating, make sure to add some extra lemon juice and olive oil to keep it moist.

Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

A: Yes, you can easily make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta instead of regular orzo.

Q: What’s the best way to cook the orzo?

A: To cook the orzo, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and then add the orzo. Cook until al dente, then drain and set aside.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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