Are you looking for a light and refreshing side dish to add some brightness to your meals? Look no further! In this article, we’ll explore 18 delicious and creative ways to make creamy lemon orzo recipes that incorporate fresh herbs. From classic combinations like lemon garlic orzo with parmesan to more adventurous pairings like lemon orzo soup with fresh dill, these recipes are sure to impress.
Whether you’re in the mood for something comforting and savory or light and zesty, we’ve got a recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. And the best part? These dishes are all incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking skills.
So go ahead, get creative with your orzo, and let the bright flavors of lemon and fresh herbs transport you to a sunny day!
Lemon Garlic Orzo with Parmesan
Lemon Garlic Orzo with Parmesan: A bright and flavorful side dish that combines the creaminess of orzo with the tanginess of lemon and the richness of parmesan.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the orzo according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fragrant and lightly golden.
3. Stir in the lemon juice and cook for an additional minute.
4. Drain the cooked orzo and add it to the skillet with the garlic-lemon mixture. Toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the top and toss again to combine.
6. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Lemon Orzo with Spinach and Feta
A bright and refreshing twist on traditional orzo pasta, this recipe combines the tanginess of lemon with the creaminess of feta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add spinach leaves and cook until wilted, about 1-2 minutes.
4. Stir in heavy cream and bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Add cooked orzo pasta, feta cheese, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Toss until well combined.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional feta cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Orzo Salad with Cherry Tomatoes
This refreshing salad combines the creamy goodness of orzo pasta with the tanginess of lemon and the sweetness of cherry tomatoes, making it perfect for a light and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice and olive oil.
3. Add cooked orzo, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Toss to combine.
4. Halve cherry tomatoes and add them to the bowl. Toss gently.
5. Sprinkle chopped parsley and Parmesan cheese (if using) over the top.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Herb Orzo with Grilled Chicken
Lemon Herb Orzo with Grilled Chicken Recipe
A Bright and Refreshing Summer Dish
This recipe combines the flavors of lemon, herbs, and grilled chicken with the comforting warmth of orzo pasta. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
2. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic, parsley, and basil; cook for 1 minute.
5. Stir in lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Add cooked orzo pasta and toss to combine.
6. Slice grilled chicken and serve on top of the orzo mixture. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Orzo with Roasted Asparagus
This bright and citrusy side dish combines the creamy goodness of orzo with the natural sweetness of roasted asparagus, all tied together with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 12-15 minutes or until tender.
2. Cook orzo according to package instructions using 2 cups of water. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté garlic in a little bit of olive oil until fragrant. Add cooked orzo and stir to combine with garlic.
4. Squeeze lemon juice over the orzo mixture and toss to coat.
5. Serve warm, topped with roasted asparagus and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Butter Orzo with Shrimp
This recipe combines the comforting warmth of orzo pasta with the bright, citrusy flavors of lemon and butter, topped with succulent shrimp. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a medium skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add lemon juice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Stir in parsley and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked orzo pasta with lemon butter mixture and toss to combine.
6. Serve immediately, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Orzo Soup with Fresh Dill
Brighten up a chilly day with this refreshing and flavorful soup, perfect for a light lunch or dinner. The combination of lemony zing, creamy orzo, and sweet fresh dill will leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Stir in lemon juice, cooked orzo, and chopped fresh dill. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Orzo with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Brighten up your mealtime with this flavorful and easy-to-make pasta dish, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The combination of creamy lemon sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, and chewy orzo is sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz orzo
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook orzo according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine chicken broth and lemon juice. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Add butter and stir until melted.
4. Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Combine cooked orzo with the lemon-tomato sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top and garnish with fresh parsley leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Orzo Risotto with Peas
Lemon Orzo Risotto with Peas: A Bright and Fresh Springtime Dish
This Lemon Orzo Risotto with Peas is a light and airy spring-inspired dish that combines the creamy richness of risotto with the bright, citrusy flavor of lemon. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the broth in a separate pot and keep warm.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the orzo and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes.
5. Add the warmed broth, one cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
6. When the orzo is cooked, stir in the peas, lemon juice, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Orzo with Roasted Red Peppers
This creamy pasta dish combines the brightness of lemon zest and juice with the sweetness of roasted red peppers, all wrapped up in a comforting bowl of orzo.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 2 cups water
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 large red bell peppers, seeded and sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cook orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add sliced red peppers and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked orzo, roasted pepper mixture, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Orzo Pasta Salad with Cucumber
A refreshing summer salad that combines the brightness of lemon zest with the creaminess of orzo pasta, crunchy cucumber, and a hint of garlic. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 2 lemons, zested and juiced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Add cooked orzo pasta to the bowl and toss to combine.
4. Stir in sliced cucumber and chopped parsley (if using).
5. Serve at room temperature or chilled.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Orzo with Grilled Salmon
Brighten up your weeknight dinner routine with this flavorful and healthy combination of grilled salmon and creamy lemon orzo.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 3 cups water
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Cook orzo according to package instructions using 3 cups of water. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the salmon fillets to the bowl and toss to coat with the lemon mixture.
5. Grill the salmon for 4-6 minutes per side or until cooked through.
6. Toss cooked orzo with chopped parsley (if using) and a squeeze of lemon juice.
7. Serve grilled salmon on top of lemon orzo.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Orzo with Artichoke Hearts
Brighten up your dinner table with this vibrant and flavorful dish, featuring tender artichoke hearts, lemony orzo, and a hint of garlic.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 2 lemons, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring the orzo pasta and water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Stir in the chopped artichoke hearts and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until heated through.
4. Drain the cooked orzo and add it to the skillet with the artichoke mixture. Toss to combine.
5. Squeeze the lemon juice over the top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Lemon Orzo with Basil and Pine Nuts
Brighten up your pasta game with this zesty and aromatic Lemon Orzo dish, infused with the freshness of basil and crunch of pine nuts. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz orzo
– 2 cups water
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tbsp)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring orzo and water to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 8-10 minutes or until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium. Add chopped basil and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Stir in Parmesan cheese and toasted pine nuts. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Add lemon juice to the skillet and stir to combine.
5. Drain cooked orzo and add it to the skillet. Toss to combine with the lemon-basil mixture.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Orzo with Zucchini and Mint
This light and flavorful recipe is perfect for hot summer days, combining the brightness of lemon, the sweetness of zucchini, and the freshness of mint. It’s a great accompaniment to grilled meats or as a side dish for your favorite summer salads.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped mint leaves
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the zucchini slices and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until tender.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked orzo, zucchini, mint leaves, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Toss to combine.
4. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Orzo with Chickpeas and Feta
This recipe combines the creamy richness of orzo pasta with the tangy brightness of lemon, the earthiness of chickpeas, and the salty crumbliness of feta. Perfect as a side dish for your next dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 can chickpeas (15 oz), drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the orzo according to package instructions using 8 oz water. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chickpeas and cook for 2-3 minutes, until lightly toasted.
3. Stir in lemon juice and cooked orzo. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Top with crumbled feta cheese. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Orzo with Roasted Garlic
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy and aromatic dish, featuring the brightness of lemon and the deep richness of roasted garlic.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 2 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, peeled and chopped
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the garlic: Place the chopped garlic on a piece of aluminum foil, drizzle with olive oil, and fold the foil into a packet. Roast for 30-40 minutes, or until the garlic is tender and caramelized.
3. Cook the orzo: Bring the warmed broth to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. Combine the ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, roasted garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Add the cooked orzo and toss until well combined.
5. Serve: Top with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Lemon Orzo with Arugula and Lemon Zest
This recipe is a perfect combination of flavors and textures, featuring the creamy orzo pasta, peppery arugula, and zesty lemon zest. It’s an ideal side dish for any meal, whether it’s a light lunch or a special occasion dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz (225g) orzo pasta
– 2 cups (475ml) water
– 1/4 cup (60g) freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp (30g) olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– 4 cups (100g) arugula leaves
– 1 tsp (5g) grated lemon zest
Instructions:
1. Bring the orzo and water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the pasta is al dente.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, salt, arugula leaves, and lemon zest.
3. Once the orzo is cooked, drain and add it to the bowl with the arugula mixture. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated.
4. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to brighten up your meals with these 18 creamy lemon orzo recipes featuring fresh herbs! From classic combinations like Lemon Garlic Orzo with Parmesan to more adventurous options like Lemon Herb Orzo with Grilled Chicken, there’s something for everyone. Add a burst of citrus flavor to your pasta dishes with Creamy Lemon Orzo with Spinach and Feta, or try something new like Lemon Orzo Soup with Fresh Dill. Whatever you choose, these recipes are sure to bring a ray of sunshine to your plate.
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