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Dreamy Creamy Parmesan Garlic Orzo - creamy orzo

Dreamy Creamy Parmesan Garlic Orzo

Creamy orzo: master this quick and delightful garlic parmesan side dish. Perfect with a hint of lemon, it's an easy weeknight favorite.
Prep Time 8 minutes
Cook Time 17 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4
Calories 280 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 cloves garlic (pressed or minced)
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • pinch salt
  • 1 cup (6.5oz) gluten-free brown rice orzo
  • 2 tablespoons half-and-half OR heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 fresh lemon (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Melt the butter in a medium-size saucepan over medium heat. Add the garlic then cook while stirring constantly until it becomes light golden brown
  • Once simmering, add the orzo then stir to combine. Place a lid on top of the pot, turn the heat down to low, then gently simmer until the orzo is tender, 15-17 minutes, stirring often and adding a splash more chicken broth near the end if needed. Be sure to keep the heat on low to maintain a very gentle simmer.
  • Turn the heat off then add the parmesan cheese and stir to combine. Add the half-and-half then stir to combine. Squeeze in a bit of fresh lemon juice, if using, then stir to combine. Taste then add more salt if needed. Scoop onto plates then serve

Notes

Nutrition information is an estimate, calculated automatically. Values vary with brands, substitutions and portion sizes.