Creamy Lemon Orzo with Fresh Parmesan and Garlic

Jan 17, 2025by Alex Cogen

If you’re looking for a dish that combines simplicity with gourmet flair, this Creamy Lemon Orzo with Fresh Parmesan and Garlic is your new go-to recipe. Perfect for busy weeknights or as a delicious side dish, this one-pot wonder transforms tender orzo pasta into a luscious, creamy orzo dish with a bright burst of lemon zest and the savory richness of parmesan cheese.

Using simple ingredients like vegetable broth, Lemon Infused Olive Oil, and fresh parsley, this recipe is a quick and satisfying addition to your rotation of orzo recipes to keep in your back pocket.

With a slightly chewy texture, a hint of red pepper flakes for warmth, and a creamy sauce that clings to every grain, this dish is versatile enough to complement your favorite protein like balsamic grilled chicken or stand alone as a main course.

Plus, that burst of bright lemon flavor from the olive oil and fresh lemon is truly out of this world! So follow along with these simple steps to make your new favorite pasta.

Creamy Lemon Orzo with Fresh Parmesan and Garlic

Prep Time: 5 mins
Cooking Time: 15 mins
Serves: 4-6 guests

Ingredients:

16 oz dried uncooked orzo
2 ½ cups chicken or vegetable broth
1 lemon, zested and juiced
2 cloves of garlic
¼ cup of Lemon Infused Olive Oil
2 tbsp capers
½ tsp kosher salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp red pepper flakes
5 oz of grated parmesan
Fresh herbs like Italian parsley to garnish

Directions:

In a medium pot bring the broth to a boil over medium heat.
Add orzo and simmer for 10-12 mins until orzo is tender, then remove from heat.
Mix in Lemon Olive Oil, fresh lemon juice and zest, along with capers and parmesan.
Garnish with fresh Italian parsley and serve your creamy lemon orzo recipe!

Time to Enjoy!

Whether you're serving it as a perfect easy side dish or indulging in it as a comforting creamy pasta main course, this creamy lemon garlic orzo is bound to become one of your favorite things.

With its hint of lemon and the perfect balance of flavors from minced garlic, capers, and parmesan cheese, it’s a dish that feels indulgent but comes together in just minutes.

Store leftovers in an airtight container for a delicious lunch the next day, or make it fresh for your next dinner party to wow guests with its bold, lemon flavor and creamy texture.

Add this great recipe to your recipe card collection (download below) for effortless cooking on busy weeknights—it’s a classic you’ll return to time and again.

Download Recipe