Description
Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Peas is a luscious and comforting Italian-inspired side dish featuring tender orzo pasta cooked in savory broth, enriched with Parmesan cheese, cream, and sweet peas. This simple one-pot recipe delivers rich flavors and a creamy texture perfect for serving alongside chicken, fish, or roasted vegetables.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 small shallot or 1/2 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 1/4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup frozen peas, thawed
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
Seasoning and Garnish
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat the base fats and aromatics: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, warm the olive oil and butter until melted. Add the finely chopped shallot and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened. Then stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds to release its fragrance.
- Toast the orzo: Add the orzo pasta to the pan and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring frequently, allowing the orzo to lightly toast and develop a nutty aroma without browning.
- Add the broth and simmer: Pour in the low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook uncovered for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Incorporate cream, cheese, and peas: Stir in the thawed peas, grated Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream. Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes until the peas are heated through and the mixture becomes creamy and well combined.
- Season and serve: Season the dish with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve warm, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired for a pop of color and freshness.
Notes
- For an extra flavor boost, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a pinch of red pepper flakes to brighten or add heat.
- This dish pairs excellently as a side with grilled or roasted chicken, fish, or vegetables.
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream.
- Make sure to stir occasionally while simmering to prevent the orzo from sticking to the bottom.
- The dish can be made vegetarian by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 390mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
