This Greek orzo dish is a cheerful mix of tender pasta and zesty lemon, brightened up with fresh herbs. It’s simple yet packed with flavor, making it a delightful side or main dish!
I love how quick it is to whip up—perfect for busy nights. It pairs well with grilled chicken or veggies, and you can almost hear the sunshine when you take a bite! ☀️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orzo Pasta: Orzo is a rice-shaped pasta that’s perfect for this dish. You can substitute it with other small pasta like quinoa, couscous, or even rice if you’re looking for a gluten-free option.
Vegetable Broth: Using vegetable broth adds a rich flavor. If you don’t have it on hand, water works fine. For a deeper taste, try using chicken broth if you’re not vegeterian.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is my favorite choice for its strong flavor. Other oils like avocado or grapeseed can replace it, but they won’t give the same taste.
Lemon: Fresh lemons give the best flavor. Bottled lemon juice is a quick substitute, but remember it might alter the dish’s taste a bit.
Herbs: Parsley and dill add wonderful freshness. If you can’t find fresh herbs, try using dried ones, but use less as dried herbs are stronger. You can also substitute dill with basil or mint for a twist.
How Do You Cook Orzo Perfectly?
Cooking orzo might seem simple, but there are tips to ensure it’s just right. You want it tender, but not mushy.
- Always use plenty of water or broth to cook orzo, so it has room to move and cook evenly.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Start checking for doneness a minute or two before the time on the package instructions.
- Once it’s al dente, drain immediately to stop the cooking process and rinse with cold water briefly if you’re not mixing it right away. This helps keep the texture firm.
How to Make Greek Orzo With Lemon And Herbs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups vegetable broth or water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- ¼ cup fresh dill, chopped (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Greek orzo dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. Just boil the pasta, mix in some fresh flavors, and serve it warm. Perfect for a quick and tasty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Boiling the Orzo:
Start by bringing 2 cups of vegetable broth or water to a boil in a medium pot. Once it’s bubbling, add the orzo pasta and cook it according to the package instructions, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. You want the orzo to be al dente, meaning it should still have a little bite to it.
2. Draining and Returning the Orzo:
After the orzo is cooked, carefully drain any excess liquid using a colander. Then, return the orzo to the pot. This keeps it warm and cozy while you mix in all the yummy flavors!
3. Mixing in Flavor:
Now it’s time to add some zesty goodness! Stir in 2 tablespoons of olive oil, the zest and juice of your lemon, and the chopped parsley and dill (if you’re using it). Mix everything well so that the orzo gets coated in that delicious dressing.
4. Seasoning to Taste:
Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. If you love a bit more zing, feel free to add extra lemon juice until it’s to your liking. This will brighten the flavors even more!
5. Serving Your Dish:
Serve the Greek orzo warm, garnished with lemon wedges and any additional herbs you may want to sprinkle on top. It’s fresh, tasty, and absolutely enjoyable! Dig in and savor your creation!
Can I Use Another Type of Pasta Instead of Orzo?
Absolutely! While orzo is a great choice for this recipe due to its small size and texture, you can substitute it with other small pasta shapes like ditalini, couscous, or farro. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose!
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! Feel free to add vegetables like cherry tomatoes, spinach, or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition. Simply sauté them in olive oil before adding the cooked orzo to the pot, and mix well.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply add a splash of vegetable broth or water to the pot and warm gently over medium heat, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
This recipe is already vegan-friendly since it uses vegetable broth and no animal products. Just double-check your broth brand to ensure it’s completely plant-based, and you’re all set!
