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Parmesan Lemon Orzo

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Parmesan lemon orzo is an easy and delicious addition to any meal. Ready in just 20 minutes, this side dish is fresh, creamy, and great with everything!

Orzo is one of my favorite things ever. It can be used for orzo pasta salad, orzo pilaf, just about anything. It is perfect next to Greek lemon chicken, Peruvian chicken, or even on its own as a quick lunch or snack! 

A flat lay photo of lemon parmesan orzo in 2 bowls with some forks.

What’s In Parmesan Lemon Orzo?

Here’s what I add:

  • Orzo
  • Butter
  • Garlic
  • Chicken broth
  • Lemon juice
  • Lemon zest
  • Parmesan cheese

A bowl full of parmesan lemon orzo garnished with lemon.

Let’s Make It

To make this orzo:

  1. SAUTE: saute the orzo in butter until browned. Add garlic, and cook for another minute.
  2. SIMMER: add the chicken broth or water, bring to a boil, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until cooked.
  3. SERVE: add the parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Serve garnished with parsley 

Reheating Orzo

Orzo tends to stick when cooled, as the starches bind the orzo together. When reheating, make sure you add a tablespoon of liquid per cup and stir it. 

I like to reheat it in the microwave, but the stovetop works well too! 

A serving bowl full of lemon parmesan orzo.

Other Delicious Side Dishes

Rate this Recipe
4.33 from 40 votes

Lemon Parmesan Orzo

Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Servings: 4 servings
Author: Bailey
This simple Greek side is fresh, easy, and delicious!
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Tried this recipe?I'd love to hear what you think. Leave a comment and rating below!

Ingredients

  • 1 cup orzo
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 cups water or chicken broth
  • 3 tablespoons lemon juice fresh, about 1 lemon
  • zest of 1 lemon
  • 1/4 cup parmesan cheese shaved or grated
  • 2 tablespoons parsley chopped, garnish

Instructions

  • Heat butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
  • Add orzo, and cook for 3-5 minutes or until browned. Add garlic, and cook for an additional minute or until garlic is fragrant.
  • Add water. Cover, and cook for 20-25 minutes or until orzo is cooked.
  • Fluff with a fork. Stir in parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Garnish with parsley.
Calories: 219kcal | Carbohydrates: 30g | Protein: 7g | Fat: 8g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Cholesterol: 19mg | Sodium: 160mg | Potassium: 106mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 392IU | Vitamin C: 7mg | Calcium: 91mg | Iron: 1mg

Tried this recipe? Let me know how you liked it below! 

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Lemon orzo with text overlay that reads "lemon parmesan orzo"

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