Toasted Orzo Pilaf

Elevate your side dish game with this Toasted Orzo Pilaf, a golden, nutty twist on classic rice pilaf that's both comforting and sophisticated. Featuring lightly toasted orzo pasta infused with buttery richness and sauteed with aromatic onions and garlic, this recipe achieves ultimate flavor depth with the help of a savory chicken or vegetable broth. Ready in just 30 minutes, it's the perfect quick and versatile dish for busy weeknights or holiday feasts. Garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for brightness, this crowd-pleasing orzo pilaf pairs beautifully with roast chicken, grilled vegetables, or seafood. Easy to make and bursting with fresh, warm flavors, it’s a staple you'll revisit again and again. Search no further for the perfect elegant and easy side dish—this Toasted Orzo Pilaf has it all.

Nutriscore Rating: 65/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:30 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons Unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon Olive oil
• 1 cup Orzo pasta
• 1 small Yellow onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves Garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups Chicken or vegetable broth
• 0.5 teaspoon Salt
• 0.25 teaspoon Black pepper
• 2 tablespoons Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Directions

Step 1

Heat a medium-sized saucepan or skillet over medium heat. Add the butter and olive oil, allowing the butter to melt completely before proceeding.

Step 2

Add the orzo to the pan. Toast the pasta, stirring frequently, for about 5-8 minutes until it turns a golden brown color. Be careful not to burn it.

Step 3

Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the chopped onion to the pan, stirring occasionally, and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 4

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

Step 5

Carefully pour the chicken or vegetable broth into the pan, stirring to combine. Add the salt and black pepper.

Step 6

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pan with a lid. Simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo has absorbed most of the liquid and is tender.

Step 7

Remove the pan from the heat. Let the pilaf sit, covered, for 5 minutes to finish absorbing any remaining liquid.

Step 8

Fluff the orzo with a fork before serving. Optionally, garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	784.6 grams (784.6g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1106

Total Fat 42.70g	55%
Saturated Fat 16.40g	82%
Polyunsaturated Fat 1.30g
Cholesterol 62mg	21%
Sodium 2908mg	126%
Total Carbohydrate 159.40g	58%
Dietary Fiber 12.00g	43%
Total Sugars 6.70g
Protein 29.30g	59%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 90mg	7%
Iron 8mg	44%
Potassium 215mg	5%

*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: 33.7%

Protein: 10.3%

Carbs: 56.0%