Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with a dish that’s not only delicious but also lower in carbs? Say hello to Tasty Orzo Pilaf, a Mediterranean delight that’s bursting with vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients! In just 35 minutes, you can whip up a stunning meal that serves six, making it perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in. With its colorful medley of vegetables and the nutty goodness of orzo, this pilaf is sure to impress your taste buds and keep your carb count in check. Dive into our recipe and discover how easy it is to create this mouthwatering dish that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by washing and dicing the vegetables: finely chop the onion, bell pepper, and zucchini into uniform small cubes to ensure even cooking.
- Heat a large non-stick skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Sauté the diced onions for 2-3 minutes until they become translucent and slightly softened, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- Add the diced bell pepper and continue cooking for another 2 minutes, allowing the vegetables to develop a light golden color and release their natural flavors.
- Introduce the diced zucchini to the pan and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, ensuring the vegetables remain crisp and retain their vibrant colors.
- Add the orzo pasta to the vegetable mixture, stirring continuously to lightly toast the pasta and coat it with the vegetable oils, which will enhance its nutty flavor.
- Pour the vegetable broth into the skillet, stirring to combine all ingredients thoroughly. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid, and allow the orzo to cook for approximately 10-12 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the pasta is tender.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, gently fluffing the orzo with a fork to distribute the seasoning evenly.
- Remove from heat and let the pilaf rest for 3-5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the orzo to achieve the perfect texture.
- Serve hot as a side dish or light main course, garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or basil if desired.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, wash and dice your vegetables in advance. This will streamline your cooking process and allow you to enjoy the cooking experience without feeling rushed.
- Toast the Orzo: Lightly toasting the orzo in the pan before adding the broth enhances its nutty flavor. Just stir it for a couple of minutes until it turns slightly golden!
- Choose Fresh Vegetables: Using fresh, seasonal vegetables will not only boost the flavor but also add nutritional value to your pilaf. Feel free to substitute or add your favorites!
- Adjust the Broth: If you prefer a richer flavor, consider using homemade vegetable broth or adding a splash of white wine to the broth before simmering.
- Don’t Rush the Resting Time: Allow the pilaf to rest after cooking; this helps the flavors meld together beautifully and ensures the orzo achieves the perfect texture.
- Garnish for Extra Flavor: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil just before serving can brighten up the dish and add a pop of color!
- Make It a Meal: To turn this side dish into a hearty main course, add cooked proteins like grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a satisfying meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 62kcal
Carbohydrates: 13g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
