Description
Carrot Orzo is a simple and flavorful Mediterranean side dish made with tender orzo pasta cooked with grated carrots, onion, garlic, and broth. Enhanced with fresh parsley, Parmesan cheese, and lemon zest, this easy stovetop recipe offers a delightful balance of savory and fresh flavors, perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a tasty accompaniment to your main courses.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 medium carrots, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Finishing Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Zest of 1 lemon (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté the onion: In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened and translucent.
- Add carrots: Stir in the grated carrots and cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the carrots to soften and blend with the onion flavors.
- Cook garlic: Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
- Toast the orzo: Stir in the orzo pasta and toast it for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent sticking and to enhance the nutty flavor.
- Add broth and seasonings: Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, then add salt and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Simmer: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and simmer for 10–12 minutes. Stir occasionally until the orzo is tender and the liquid is fully absorbed.
- Finish and serve: Remove the pan from the heat, then stir in the chopped fresh parsley, Parmesan cheese if using, and lemon zest if desired. Serve the orzo warm as a side dish.
Notes
- For a creamier texture, stir in a tablespoon of butter or a splash of cream just before serving.
- Add peas or baby spinach during the last few minutes of cooking for extra color and nutrition.
- Use low-sodium broth to better control salt levels in the dish.
- Parmesan cheese and lemon zest are optional but enhance the flavor beautifully.
