Print

Lemon Orzo with Caramelized Zucchini

lemon orzo pasta
Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Lemon orzo cooked like risotto with caramelized zucchini, parmesan, and herbs. Bright, buttery, and perfect for zucchini season.

  • Author: Indi Hampton
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4
  • Category: Pasta
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • 6 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
  • 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 3 medium zucchini, ends trimmed, coarsely grated
  • kosher salt
  • freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 2/3 cups low-sodium chicken broth, plus more as needed
  • 8 oz dry orzo pasta
  • lemon zest of 1 lemon
  • 1 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1/3 cup finely grated parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp minced fresh parsley
  • 2 tbsp minced fresh basil

Instructions

  1. Melt 2 tablespoons butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Stir in zucchini, season with salt and pepper, and cook until liquid evaporates and zucchini starts to brown, about 10 minutes. Continue to cook another 5 minutes until caramelized and flavorful. Transfer to a bowl and set aside.
  2. Heat stock and another 2 tablespoons butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat; bring to a boil.
  3. Stir in orzo, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 tsp pepper and return to a gentle simmer. Cook uncovered, stirring every so often, for 8 minutes or until orzo is al dente, adding a splash more stock if needed.
  4. Remove from heat and stir in cooked zucchini, remaining 2 tablespoons butter, lemon zest, lemon juice and parmesan, stirring until butter is melted and a thin sauce coats the pasta. Stir in parsley and basil. Serve hot, garnishing with cracked pepper, and lemon zest.

Notes

Nutritional information is only an estimate. The accuracy of the nutritional information for any recipe on this site is not guaranteed.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://www.withspice.com/blog/lemon-orzo/