Orzo Primavera Recipe
Total Time: 25 minutes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Category: Low Cholesterol
Keywords: Healthy, Under 30 Minutes
Recipe Description
This Orzo Primavera is a quick and wholesome meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Adapted from the original Rachael Ray version, this recipe is deliciously easy to prepare, using just one skillet to bring together fresh vegetables and tender orzo pasta. The vibrant flavors of zucchini, carrots, and garlic combine with creamy parmesan cheese to create a dish that’s satisfying yet light, making it ideal for those looking for a healthy option. Packed with nutrients, this low-cholesterol meal is also vegetarian-friendly and can be whipped up in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves |
| Shallot (finely chopped) | 1 |
| Zucchini (chopped) | 1 medium |
| Carrot (peeled and chopped) | 1 large |
| Orzo pasta | 3/4 cup |
| Parmesan cheese (grated) | 1/2 cup |
| Fresh parsley (chopped) | 1/4 cup |
| Frozen peas (optional) | 1/2 cup |
| Chicken broth (or vegetable broth) | 3 cups |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 384.7 kcal |
| Fat Content | 13.4 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3.8 g |
| Cholesterol | 16.4 mg |
| Sodium | 515.5 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 48.3 g |
| Fiber | 4.1 g |
| Sugar | 7.4 g |
| Protein | 17.6 g |
Instructions
-
Heat the Oil:
Begin by heating a medium skillet over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and let it warm up for a minute. -
Sauté Vegetables:
Add the minced garlic and chopped shallot to the skillet. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the chopped zucchini and carrot. Continue sautéing the vegetables for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until they begin to soften and develop a light golden color. -
Add Broth:
Pour in 3 cups of chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option). Bring the broth to a boil. -
Cook the Orzo:
Add 3/4 cup of orzo pasta to the boiling broth. Stir everything together, then cover the skillet. Reduce the heat to medium and let the orzo cook for about 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the orzo from sticking to the bottom. -
Check for Doneness:
After about 10 minutes, check the orzo. It should have absorbed most of the liquid and be al dente in texture. If the pasta is still too firm, cook for an additional 1-2 minutes. -
Add Cheese and Herbs:
Once the orzo is perfectly cooked, uncover the skillet and stir in the grated parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley. If you’re adding frozen peas, toss them in at this stage as well. -
Season:
Season the Orzo Primavera with salt and pepper to taste. Give it a final stir to ensure the cheese melts and everything is well combined. -
Serve:
Serve hot, garnished with extra parsley or parmesan if desired. Enjoy this vibrant, fresh, and wholesome meal in just under 30 minutes!
Tips & Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Simply use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth for a vegetarian version of this recipe.
- Add Protein: For a heartier meal, feel free to add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
- Extra Veggies: You can easily incorporate more vegetables like bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or spinach.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute the orzo with gluten-free pasta or rice for a gluten-free alternative.
