Orzo and Broccoli Pilaf

Transform your weeknight dinner with this vibrant and hearty Orzo and Broccoli Pilaf, a one-pan dish that combines the nutty richness of toasted orzo pasta with the tender bite of blanched broccoli florets. Cooked in a flavorful broth and infused with aromatic garlic, onion, and a hint of lemon zest, this easy recipe delivers comfort and freshness in every bite. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese adds creamy decadence, while fresh parsley brightens up the dish for a crowd-pleasing finish. Ready in just 30 minutes, this vegetarian-friendly pilaf is perfect as a standalone meal or a versatile side dish. Easy to make, endlessly satisfying, and packed with wholesome ingredients, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

Nutriscore Rating: 68/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:30 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 small (finely chopped) yellow onion
• 2 minced garlic cloves
• 2.5 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 0.5 cup (grated) parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 0.5 teaspoons salt
• 0.25 teaspoons black pepper
• 2 tablespoons (chopped) fresh parsley

Directions

Step 1

Bring a medium pot of water to a boil and blanch the broccoli florets for 2 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Step 2

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent.

Step 3

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4

Add the orzo pasta to the skillet and toast it for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until lightly golden.

Step 5

Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and season with salt and black pepper. Stir to combine.

Step 6

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, reduce the heat to low, and cover the skillet. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed.

Step 7

Gently fold in the blanched broccoli florets and grated parmesan cheese. Mix well until the cheese is melted and evenly distributed.

Step 8

Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the lemon zest and fresh parsley for a burst of freshness.

Step 9

Taste and adjust seasonings if needed. Serve warm and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1163.2 grams (1163.2g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1389

Total Fat 59.30g	76%
Saturated Fat 20.60g	103%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.70g
Cholesterol 76mg	25%
Sodium 3715mg	162%
Total Carbohydrate 173.20g	63%
Dietary Fiber 17.20g	61%
Total Sugars 10.10g
Protein 52.80g	106%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 639mg	49%
Iron 10mg	55%
Potassium 306mg	7%

*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: 37.1%

Protein: 14.7%

Carbs: 48.2%