Toasted Sesame Orzo

Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this irresistible Toasted Sesame Orzo, a quick and easy side dish that’s packed with bold, nutty flavors. This recipe features golden-browned orzo pasta infused with the rich aroma of sesame oil and garlic, simmered to perfection in savory chicken or vegetable broth. A final touch of soy sauce, scallions, and toasted sesame seeds adds layers of umami and a delightful crunch, while a squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens up the dish. Perfect for pairing with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or as a standalone vegetarian option, this 30-minute dish is as versatile as it is delicious. Optimize your mealtime with a recipe that combines convenience, flavor, and flair!

Nutriscore Rating: 67/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:30 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
• 2 stalks scallions (thinly sliced)
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional)

Directions

Step 1

Heat a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of sesame oil and the unsalted butter.

Step 2

Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.

Step 3

Stir in the orzo pasta, coating it in the butter and oil. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the orzo turns golden brown and develops a toasty aroma.

Step 4

Carefully pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring it to a boil.

Step 5

Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let the orzo simmer for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Continue cooking until most of the liquid is absorbed and the orzo is tender.

Step 6

Stir in the soy sauce, salt, black pepper, and the remaining 1 tablespoon of sesame oil. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.

Step 7

Remove the pan from heat and mix in the toasted sesame seeds and scallions, reserving a small amount of each for garnish.

Step 8

If desired, stir in the lemon juice for a bright, tangy flavor to finish the dish.

Step 9

Transfer the orzo to a serving dish, garnish with the reserved sesame seeds and scallions, and serve warm.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	785.9 grams (785.9g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1197

Total Fat 51.60g	66%
Saturated Fat 12.10g	61%
Polyunsaturated Fat 11.70g
Cholesterol 31mg	10%
Sodium 3114mg	135%
Total Carbohydrate 160.40g	58%
Dietary Fiber 13.50g	48%
Total Sugars 5.60g
Protein 32.10g	64%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 222mg	17%
Iron 10mg	56%
Potassium 277mg	6%

*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: 37.6%

Protein: 10.4%

Carbs: 52.0%