Lemon Caper Orzo
Bright, zesty, and bursting with Mediterranean flavors, Lemon Caper Orzo is the perfect dish to elevate your weeknight dinners or impress at your next gathering. This light and vibrant recipe combines tender orzo pasta simmered in savory broth with a tangy blend of fresh lemon juice, zesty lemon zest, and briny capers, creating a harmony of flavors in every bite. Sautéed garlic and a drizzle of olive oil provide an aromatic base, while a sprinkling of Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley add richness and color. Ready in just 25 minutes, this one-pot wonder is as easy to prepare as it is delicious. Serve it as a refreshing side dish or a satisfying vegetarian main course, garnished with extra herbs and cheese for a stunning finish. Perfect for meals year-round, Lemon Caper Orzo is where quick, flavorful, and versatile cooking shines.
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Ingredients
- 1.5 cups orzo pasta
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- 2 tablespoons capers (drained and rinsed)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped)
- 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 0.25 cups grated Parmesan cheese
- 0.5 teaspoons salt
- 0.25 teaspoons black pepper
Directions
Step 1
Bring a medium saucepan with the chicken or vegetable broth to a boil over medium-high heat.
Step 2
Add the orzo pasta to the boiling broth. Lower the heat to medium-low and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and has absorbed the broth (about 10-12 minutes).
Step 3
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Step 4
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to brown it.
Step 5
Stir in the cooked orzo into the skillet with the garlic and mix to combine.
Step 6
Add the lemon zest, lemon juice, and capers. Stir well to coat the orzo evenly in the lemon-caper mixture.
Step 7
Season with the salt and black pepper, adjusting to taste.
Step 8
Fold in the chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until evenly distributed and the cheese has melted slightly.
Step 9
Remove from heat and serve warm or at room temperature. Garnish with extra parsley or grated Parmesan if desired.
Nutrition Facts
| Serving size | (1174.4g) |
|---|
| Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|
| Calories | 1607.5 |
| Total Fat 55.3g | 0% |
| Saturated Fat 10.8g | 0% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat 4.0g | |
| Cholesterol 20mg | 0% |
| Sodium 4564.2mg | 0% |
| Total Carbohydrate 237.3g | 0% |
| Dietary Fiber 18.8g | 0% |
| Total Sugars 8.5g | |
| Protein 51.7g | 0% |
| Vitamin D 0IU | 0% |
| Calcium 354.7mg | 0% |
| Iron 12.6mg | 0% |
| Potassium 307.6mg | 0% |
Source of Calories