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Creamy lemon parmesan orzo dish garnished with fresh herbs

Lemon Parmesan Creamy Orzo

A creamy, lemon-infused orzo pasta that offers a delightful blend of flavors, perfect for family dinners or cozy weeknight meals.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta
  • 300 g orzo pasta This tiny pasta is reminiscent of rice, with a lovely bite that absorbs flavors beautifully.
Base Ingredients
  • 2 tbsp olive oil Adds depth and a touch of heartiness to the dish.
  • 1 medium onion (finely chopped) Provides a foundation of flavor that enriches the entire dish.
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced) Infuses a warm aroma.
  • 1 tsp dried oregano Brings an earthy, slightly peppery taste.
  • ½ tsp chili flakes Adds a hint of warmth that pairs beautifully.
Creamy Sauce
  • 1 cup heavy cream Ensures the orzo is decadently creamy.
  • 1 whole lemon (zest and juice) Adds vibrancy and a refreshing twist.
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese Melts into the sauce for a sumptuous texture.
  • to taste salt and black pepper Enhances the dish.

Method
 

Cooking the Orzo
  1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook per package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Sautéing Base Ingredients
  1. In a large frying pan over medium-high heat, drizzle olive oil and add the finely chopped onion. Sauté until soft and translucent.
  2. Stir in minced garlic, oregano, and chili flakes. Cook for 30 seconds.
Making the Creamy Sauce
  1. Pour in the heavy cream and reduce for about five minutes until thickened.
  2. Add lemon zest and juice, then stir in grated Parmesan, salt, and pepper to taste.
Combining and Serving
  1. Add cooked orzo to the creamy sauce and gently stir to coat. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan.

Notes

For a creamier version, consider adding more heavy cream or a splash of pasta cooking water. Use a microplane for lemon zesting. Other cheeses like Pecorino Romano can be mixed in for a different flavor profile.