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When it comes to comfort food that tantalizes the taste buds and warms the heart, few dishes can compete with creamy lemon herb orzo. This delightful pasta dish combines the silky texture of orzo with a luscious cream sauce, brightened by the zing of fresh lemon and the aromatic notes of herbs. The result is a dish that is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a perfect centerpiece for family dinners, festive gatherings, or even a casual weeknight meal.

Creamy Lemon Herb Orzo

Indulge in the comforting flavors of creamy lemon herb orzo, a delightful mix of silky orzo pasta enveloped in a rich cream sauce, brightened by fresh lemon and aromatic herbs. Perfect for family dinners or casual weeknights, this versatile dish can be served as a main course or paired with grilled proteins. With its vibrant flavors and creamy texture, creamy lemon herb orzo is sure to become a beloved addition to your meal repertoire. Enjoy a quick and satisfying dish that's easy to customize!
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Ingredients
  

1 cup orzo pasta

4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Juice and zest of 1 large lemon

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped

Salt and black pepper to taste

Optional: cherry tomatoes, halved (for garnish)

Optional: additional grated Parmesan (for serving)

Instructions
 

Cook the Orzo: In a medium pot, bring the vegetable (or chicken) broth to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain the orzo and set aside.

    Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until it becomes translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

      Make it Creamy: Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir well to combine, then add the cooked orzo to the skillet. Mix until the orzo is evenly coated.

        Add Flavor: Stir in the grated Parmesan, lemon juice, lemon zest, parsley, and basil. Mix until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy. If the mixture is too thick, you can add a splash of the reserved broth to loosen it up.

          Season: Taste and season with salt and black pepper as desired. Adjust the lemon juice for more brightness if needed.

            Serve: Plate the creamy lemon herb orzo and garnish with halved cherry tomatoes for a pop of color, along with extra grated Parmesan if desired. Enjoy warm!

              Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4