Big Daddy's Lemon Pepper Orzo
Bright, zesty, and bursting with flavor, Big Daddy's Lemon Pepper Orzo is the ultimate side dish or light main course to elevate your mealtime. This quick and easy recipe combines tender orzo pasta with a luscious, buttery sauce infused with garlic, lemon juice, and freshly ground black pepper. A hint of parmesan cheese adds creaminess, while a sprinkle of fresh parsley brings a pop of fresh color and herby goodness. Perfectly balanced with optional red pepper flakes for a touch of heat, this 30-minute dish is ideal for busy weeknights or entertaining guests. Pair it with grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or enjoy it on its own for a bright, tangy twist on comfort food.
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Ingredients
- 1.5 cups orzo pasta
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1.5 teaspoons ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 cups parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 0.25 teaspoons red pepper flakes (optional)
Directions
Step 1
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2
In a large skillet, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat.
Step 3
Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant and lightly golden.
Step 4
Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, ground black pepper, and salt.
Step 5
Add the cooked orzo to the skillet and stir well to coat it with the lemon pepper sauce.
Step 6
Reduce the heat to low and mix in the grated parmesan cheese until it melts and becomes creamy.
Step 7
Sprinkle with chopped parsley and optional red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Step 8
Serve immediately, garnished with an extra sprinkle of parmesan if desired.
Nutrition Facts
| Serving size | (1207.2g) |
|---|
| Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|
| Calories | 1880.8 |
| Total Fat 81.7g | 0% |
| Saturated Fat 33.4g | 0% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat 2.7g | |
| Cholesterol 133mg | 0% |
| Sodium 4717.2mg | 0% |
| Total Carbohydrate 238.7g | 0% |
| Dietary Fiber 18.7g | 0% |
| Total Sugars 8.4g | |
| Protein 65.1g | 0% |
| Vitamin D 0IU | 0% |
| Calcium 626.8mg | 0% |
| Iron 14.5mg | 0% |
| Potassium 837.5mg | 0% |
Source of Calories