A bright and flavorful one-pot lemon orzo recipe that's perfect for a quick weeknight meal. Creamy orzo pasta infused with lemon zest and juice, garlic, and parmesan cheese.
In a large skillet or pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Add the orzo pasta to the skillet and toast for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until lightly golden.
Pour in the vegetable broth and water. Season with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until the orzo is cooked through and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Remove from heat. Stir in the grated parmesan cheese, lemon zest, and lemon juice. The orzo should be creamy.
Serve immediately, garnished with extra parmesan and fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
For a richer flavor, you can use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth. Add cooked chicken or shrimp for a complete meal.