Sometimes, the simplest dishes are the most comforting, and Orzo with Broccoli is proof of that! This quick and easy meal combines tender orzo pasta with vibrant broccoli, all tossed in a light, flavorful sauce. It’s cozy, satisfying, and packed with fresh, wholesome ingredients. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a side dish for your favorite protein, or even a meal prep option, this dish has got you covered. Trust me, once you try it, it’s going to be a staple in your kitchen!
Why You’ll Love Orzo with Broccoli
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating a dish that’s both nourishing and delicious. Here’s why it’s a must-try:
Versatile: Serve it as a main dish, a side, or even a base for protein like chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
Budget-Friendly: Uses pantry staples and fresh broccoli, making it a cost-effective meal.
Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
Customizable: Add cheese, spices, or a protein to make it your own.
Crowd-Pleasing: Even picky eaters love the creamy texture and mild flavors!
Ingredients
Ingredients in Orzo with Broccoli
This dish comes together with just a few simple ingredients, but the flavors are anything but basic!
Orzo Pasta: Tiny, rice-shaped pasta that soaks up all the delicious flavors.
Broccoli: Fresh or frozen, cooked until perfectly tender.
Olive Oil: Adds richness and enhances the flavors.
Garlic: A must-have for that delicious, aromatic depth.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, nutty kick to the dish.
Vegetable or Chicken Broth: Infuses the orzo with extra flavor.
Lemon Juice: Brightens everything up with a touch of acidity.
Black Pepper & Salt: To season and bring out all the flavors.
Optional Add-Ins: Red pepper flakes for heat, toasted pine nuts for crunch, or grilled chicken for protein.
(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
Cook the Orzo: In a large pot, bring broth or salted water to a boil. Add orzo and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Steam the Broccoli: While the orzo cooks, steam or blanch the broccoli until bright green and tender. Drain and chop into bite-sized pieces.
Sauté the Garlic: In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
Combine Everything: Add the cooked orzo and broccoli to the pan, stirring to coat everything in the garlicky oil.
Season & Finish: Stir in Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Mix well and cook for another minute until everything is heated through.
Serve and Enjoy: Plate the orzo and broccoli warm, garnishing with extra Parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 4
Calories per serving: ~350 kcal
(Note: Nutrition values are estimates and may vary based on ingredients used.)
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
How to Serve Orzo with Broccoli
This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
- Serve with grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a protein boost.
- Pair with a simple green salad and a light vinaigrette for a fresh contrast.
- Enjoy as a side with roasted salmon or baked cod.
- Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Serve with crusty garlic bread for the ultimate comfort meal.
Additional Tips
Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
- Use Fresh or Frozen Broccoli: Both work well—just adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Make It Creamy: Stir in a little heavy cream or ricotta cheese for a richer texture.
- Go Gluten-Free: Swap orzo for gluten-free pasta or quinoa.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This dish stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Boost the Protein: Add shredded rotisserie chicken, chickpeas, or crispy bacon.
FAQ’s
1. Can I use another type of pasta?
Yes! While orzo is ideal, you can use small pasta like ditalini or pearl couscous.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
3. Can I make this dairy-free?
Absolutely! Just skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative.
4. What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
Reheat in a pan with a splash of broth or olive oil to bring back moisture.
5. Can I add more veggies?
Yes! Try mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for extra nutrition.
6. Can I make this in one pot?
Yes! Cook the orzo in broth, then stir in the other ingredients for minimal cleanup.
7. Can I freeze Orzo with Broccoli?
It’s best fresh, but you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Reheat with a little broth to revive the texture.
8. Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes! The mild flavors and creamy texture make it a hit with kids.
9. Can I make this spicy?
Of course! Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
10. What’s the best cheese to use besides Parmesan?
Feta, goat cheese, or pecorino all work beautifully.
Conclusion
This Orzo with Broccoli is the perfect balance of cozy and fresh, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or meal prep. With simple ingredients, minimal effort, and maximum flavor, it’s a dish that delivers every time. Whether you serve it as a main or a side, trust me—this one’s a keeper!
Print
Orzo with Broccoli
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2-3 servings
- Category: Side Dish / Pasta
- Method: Stovetop (Boiling & Sautéing)
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Orzo with Broccoli dish is a light and flavorful Mediterranean-inspired meal. Al dente orzo is combined with tender steamed broccoli, fragrant garlic, zesty lemon, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a simple yet satisfying side dish or main course.
Ingredients
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional: 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts
• Optional: A pinch of red pepper flakes
Instructions
1. Cook the Orzo:
– Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and add the orzo.
– Cook until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
2. Steam the Broccoli:
– Steam the broccoli florets until crisp-tender (about 4-5 minutes). Alternatively, you can blanch them in boiling water.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
– In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
– Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Combine and Toss:
– Add the cooked orzo and steamed broccoli to the skillet.
– Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and grated Parmesan cheese.
– Season with salt and pepper (and red pepper flakes if using).
– Toss everything together until well combined and heated through.
– If using, sprinkle toasted pine nuts over the top.
5. Serve:
– Transfer to a serving bowl and enjoy warm.
Notes
• For extra protein, add grilled chicken or shrimp.
• Adjust the lemon juice and zest to suit your taste.
• This dish works well as a side or can be served as a light main course.
• For a vegan version, substitute Parmesan with a plant-based cheese or nutritional yeast.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approx. 1 cup
- Calories: ~300 kcal
- Sugar: ~2 g
- Sodium: ~350 mg
- Fat: ~10 g
- Saturated Fat: ~2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: ~8 g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: ~40 g
- Fiber: ~3 g
- Protein: ~10 g
- Cholesterol: ~5 mg