Genoa Orzo with Pesto

Perfectly blending the bright, fresh flavors of basil pesto with tender orzo pasta, Genoa Orzo with Pesto is a celebration of Mediterranean simplicity and elegance. This quick and easy recipe features a homemade pesto made from fragrant basil, nutty pine nuts, creamy Parmesan, zesty lemon juice, and a drizzle of high-quality olive oil for a silky finish. Tossed with al dente orzo, this dish is elevated even further with optional bursts of sweetness from cherry tomatoes and a sprinkle of Parmesan shavings for garnish. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s the perfect side dish or light main course, served warm or at room temperature. Whether for a casual lunch or a dinner party, this flavorful Italian-inspired recipe is sure to impress.

Nutriscore Rating: 61/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:10 mins

Total Time:25 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup Orzo pasta
• 2 cups Fresh basil leaves
• 0.25 cup Pine nuts
• 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 2 Garlic cloves
• 0.33 cup Extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon Lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 0.25 teaspoon Black pepper
• 0.5 cup Cherry tomatoes (optional, for garnish)
• 2 tablespoons Parmesan shavings (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

Bring a medium pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to the package instructions (typically 8-10 minutes) until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2

While the orzo is cooking, prepare the pesto. In a food processor, combine the fresh basil leaves, pine nuts, grated Parmesan cheese, and garlic cloves.

Step 3

Pulse the ingredients in the food processor until coarsely chopped. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while the processor is running until the mixture reaches a smooth consistency.

Step 4

Add the lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Pulse a few more times to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 5

Once the orzo is cooked and drained, transfer it to a large mixing bowl. While the orzo is still warm, add the pesto and toss until the pasta is thoroughly coated.

Step 6

If adding cherry tomatoes, slice them in half and fold them gently into the pasta for a burst of color and flavor.

Step 7

Serve the Genoa orzo warm or at room temperature. Optionally, garnish with Parmesan shavings before serving. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	536.9 grams (536.9g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1808

Total Fat 114.80g	147%
Saturated Fat 21.30g	107%
Polyunsaturated Fat 11.50g
Cholesterol 45mg	15%
Sodium 3139mg	136%
Total Carbohydrate 164.00g	60%
Dietary Fiber 15.10g	54%
Total Sugars 8.20g
Protein 50.80g	102%

Vitamin D 2IU	12%
Calcium 624mg	48%
Iron 11mg	61%
Potassium 660mg	14%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 54.6%

Protein: 10.7%

Carbs: 34.7%