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Lemon Orzo Pasta


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  • Author: james-carter
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A bright and refreshing creamy lemon orzo pasta dish, perfect for a quick dinner.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions until al dente, ensuring it retains a slight bite.
  2. Drain and set the pasta aside, letting it cool for a moment while you prepare the sauce.
  3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, swirling it to coat the bottom of the pan.
  4. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute, taking care not to let it brown.
  5. Stir in the cooked orzo, ensuring the pasta absorbs some of the garlicky oil.
  6. Pour in the heavy cream and fresh lemon juice, stirring until the pasta is well-coated, and the sauce begins to thicken gently.
  7. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted, creating a creamy texture.
  8. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting based on your preference.
  9. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving for a pop of color and flavor.

Notes

Stir continuously after adding the heavy cream and lemon juice to prevent the sauce from separating. Use high-quality olive oil for the best flavor.

  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 54g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 12g
  • Cholesterol: 40mg