Orzo Pilaf

Elevate your side-dish game with this irresistibly flavorful Orzo Pilaf, a quick and versatile recipe that's perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday feasts. Featuring golden toasted orzo pasta infused with the rich flavors of sautéed onion, garlic, and carrot, this dish is simmered to perfection in savory chicken or vegetable broth. A final garnish of fresh parsley adds a touch of brightness and color, making it as visually appealing as it is delicious. Ready in just 30 minutes, this comforting pilaf pairs beautifully with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or can even be enjoyed on its own. Simple yet sophisticated, Orzo Pilaf is the perfect blend of convenience and culinary finesse.

Nutriscore Rating: 64/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:30 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small, finely diced yellow onion
• 2 cloves, minced garlic
• 1 medium, finely diced carrot
• 2.5 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon (or to taste) salt
• 0.5 teaspoon (or to taste) ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons, chopped (optional for garnish) fresh parsley

Directions

Step 1

Heat a large sauté pan or medium saucepan over medium heat.

Step 2

Add the butter and olive oil to the pan, allowing the butter to melt completely.

Step 3

Stir in the diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes, until softened and translucent.

Step 4

Add the garlic and diced carrot to the pan and cook for another 2 minutes, stirring frequently.

Step 5

Pour the dry orzo into the pan, stirring well to coat it in the butter and oil. Toast the orzo for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it turns golden brown.

Step 6

Carefully add the broth into the pan, stirring to combine with the orzo. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Step 7

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, covering the pan with a lid. Let it simmer gently for 12-15 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and the liquid is fully absorbed.

Step 8

Remove the pan from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 9

Fluff the orzo pilaf with a fork and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 10

Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, if desired, and serve warm as a side dish.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	993.8 grams (993.8g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1146

Total Fat 43.10g	55%
Saturated Fat 16.50g	83%
Polyunsaturated Fat 1.30g
Cholesterol 62mg	21%
Sodium 4558mg	198%
Total Carbohydrate 167.30g	61%
Dietary Fiber 14.40g	51%
Total Sugars 10.10g
Protein 30.90g	62%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 126mg	10%
Iron 9mg	48%
Potassium 454mg	10%

*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: 32.9%

Protein: 10.5%

Carbs: 56.7%