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