Orzo with Lemon and Artichokes

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This bright and flavorful orzo dish combines tender pasta with tangy artichoke hearts and fresh lemon for a Mediterranean-inspired meal that’s both satisfying and refreshing. The combination of garlic, fresh herbs, and Parmesan cheese creates a perfect balance of flavors that makes this dish ideal for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts, drained and quartered
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 lemon, zested and juiced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
  3. Add the quartered artichoke hearts to the skillet and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. Stir in the cooked orzo, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
  5. Remove from heat and fold in the chopped parsley, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
  6. Serve warm, garnished with extra parsley and Parmesan if desired.

Variations

  1. Protein Addition: Add grilled chicken breast, shrimp, or white beans during step 4 to make this a heartier main course.
  2. Vegetable Boost: Include cherry tomatoes, roasted red peppers, or sautéed zucchini along with the artichokes for extra color and nutrition.
  3. Cheese Swap: Replace Parmesan with crumbled feta cheese or goat cheese for a different Mediterranean flavor profile.

Cooking Notes

  1. Pasta Texture: Cook orzo just until al dente as it will continue to absorb flavors and soften slightly when mixed with the other ingredients.
  2. Artichoke Preparation: Pat the drained artichoke hearts dry with paper towels before adding to the skillet to prevent excess moisture and ensure better browning.
  3. Heat Management: Keep the heat at medium when sautéing garlic to prevent burning, which would create a bitter taste throughout the dish.

Serving Suggestions

  1. Light Lunch: Serve alongside a crisp arugula salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette and a slice of crusty bread.
  2. Dinner Pairing: Pair with grilled fish or roasted chicken and steamed asparagus for a complete Mediterranean-style meal.
  3. Appetizer Style: Serve in smaller portions as an elegant starter before a larger Italian or Mediterranean feast.

Tips

  1. Make-Ahead Friendly: This dish tastes even better the next day as flavors meld together – store covered in the refrigerator and gently reheat or serve at room temperature.
  2. Lemon Balance: Taste before serving and adjust lemon juice as needed – some prefer more citrus brightness while others like it more subtle.
  3. Fresh Herb Timing: Add fresh parsley at the very end to maintain its bright color and fresh flavor rather than cooking it down.

Prep Time:

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 320 kcal
  • Protein: 12g
  • Sodium: 450mg

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I use fresh artichokes instead of canned? Yes, you can use 2-3 fresh artichoke hearts that have been steamed and quartered. Fresh artichokes will need about 20-25 minutes of steaming before adding to the recipe.
  2. How long does this dish keep in the refrigerator? This orzo dish will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container. It can be enjoyed cold or gently reheated.
  3. Can I make this dish vegan? Absolutely! Simply omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute it with nutritional yeast or your favorite vegan cheese alternative for a plant-based version.
  4. What can I substitute for orzo pasta? Small pasta shapes like ditalini, small shells, or even couscous work well as substitutes. Cook according to package directions and adjust liquid as needed.

Conclusion

This Zesty Orzo with Artichokes and Fresh Herbs proves that simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavors. The bright combination of lemon, tender artichokes, and fresh herbs makes this dish a versatile addition to your recipe collection. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a make-ahead lunch option, or an elegant side dish for entertaining, this Mediterranean-inspired orzo delivers on both taste and convenience. The best part is how easily it adapts to your preferences and dietary needs, making it a reliable go-to recipe that never gets old.

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Orzo with Lemon and Artichokes

  • Author: Avery
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian
Print Recipe

Description

This bright and flavorful orzo dish combines tender pasta with tangy artichoke hearts and fresh lemon for a Mediterranean-inspired meal that’s both satisfying and refreshing. The combination of garlic, fresh herbs, and Parmesan cheese creates a perfect balance of flavors that makes this dish ideal for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts, drained and quartered
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 lemon, zested and juiced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
  3. Add the quartered artichoke hearts to the skillet and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. Stir in the cooked orzo, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
  5. Remove from heat and fold in the chopped parsley, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
  6. Serve warm, garnished with extra parsley and Parmesan if desired.

Notes

For best results, use fresh lemon juice rather than bottled. You can substitute fresh basil or oregano for the parsley if preferred. This dish can be served warm or at room temperature, making it perfect for meal prep or potluck gatherings.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 320 kcal
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Fat: 9g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 48g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 12g
  • Cholesterol: 5mg

Keywords: orzo, artichokes, lemon, Mediterranean, pasta, vegetarian, quick dinner

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