This Greek orzo is a cheerful mix of tender pasta, zesty lemon, and fresh herbs. It’s like a party in your mouth, bringing a sunny vibe to any meal!
I love how quick and easy this dish is to whip up. A perfect side or light main! Just boil the orzo, toss in the goodies, and you’re ready to impress your taste buds! 🌼
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orzo Pasta: This rice-shaped pasta is perfect for the dish. If you’re out of orzo, you can use other small pasta shapes like ditalini or even couscous for a different twist.
Broth: The recipe calls for vegetable or chicken broth for depth of flavor. If you’re vegetarian or vegan, stick with vegetable broth. Homemade broth works well too, but low-sodium store-bought is convenient!
Herbs: Fresh parsley and dill bring bright flavors. If you can’t find dill, you might use basil or thyme. Dried herbs can work in a pinch; just remember that they are more concentrated, so use less.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is my go-to for its rich taste. You can substitute it with any other oil you prefer, like avocado oil, but it may alter the flavor slightly.
How Do I Cook Orzo Perfectly?
Cooking orzo may seem simple, but getting that perfect al dente texture is key! Here’s how to do it:
- Start by bringing your broth to a rolling boil in a saucepan.
- Once it’s boiling, add the orzo and stir to prevent sticking.
- Follow the packaging instructions; usually, it takes about 8-10 minutes. Be sure to taste it a minute or so before the timer goes off to check for doneness.
- If there’s too much liquid after cooking, just drain a bit, but keep some moisture as it’s great for mixing with oil and herbs later.
Enjoying perfectly cooked orzo makes a big difference in your dish! A little attention here goes a long way.
How to Make Greek Orzo With Lemon And Herbs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Herb Mixture:
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, finely chopped (optional)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Lemon wedges
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 15 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes cooking the orzo and preparing the herb mixture, and just a few extra minutes to combine everything. Quick and flavorful!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook The Orzo:
Start by bringing 2 cups of vegetable or chicken broth to a boil in a medium saucepan. Once it’s bubbling nicely, add in the 1 cup of orzo pasta. Cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes, until the orzo is al dente. Stir occasionally to keep it from sticking.
2. Prepare The Herb Mixture:
While the orzo is cooking, take a large bowl and combine the finely chopped parsley, dill (if you like that flavor), lemon zest, and lemon juice. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste, and set it aside for later.
3. Combine Everything:
Once your orzo is cooked, drain any extra liquid if needed and return it to the saucepan. Drizzle the 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the warm orzo and give it a good stir to mix it all together. Now, gently fold in your tasty herb mixture, ensuring that the orzo is evenly coated with all those fresh flavors.
4. Taste and Adjust Seasoning:
Give your dish a taste! If you think it needs more flavor, feel free to add more salt, pepper, or a bit more lemon juice as per your liking.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Greek orzo warm and garnish it with lemon wedges for an extra pop of citrus. Enjoy the zesty goodness of your orzo with lemon and herbs!
Can I Use Gluten-Free Orzo for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Gluten-free orzo works just as well in this recipe. Just be sure to check the cooking instructions on the package, as gluten-free pasta may require different cooking times. Adjust the broth amount if needed, as gluten-free pasta can absorb more liquid.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water to keep it moist.
Can I Substitute the Herbs?
Definitely! If you don’t have fresh parsley or dill on hand, feel free to use other herbs like basil or oregano. If using dried herbs instead of fresh, reduce the amount to about one-third, as they are more concentrated in flavor.
What Can I Serve with Greek Orzo?
This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. It also makes a great side dish for roasted vegetables or a fresh salad, adding a bright and herby flavor to your table!
