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One-Pot Orzo with Peas and Parmesan

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

Description

This One-Pot Orzo with Peas and Parmesan is a cozy, weeknight-friendly dish that comes together in under 30 minutes. Tender orzo simmers in savory vegetable broth, then gets tossed with sweet peas and a generous handful of Parmesan for a creamy, risotto-like texture without the constant stirring. It’s simple, satisfying, and perfect for busy days.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes, until translucent and softened.
  2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant but not browned.
  3. Add the orzo to the pot, stirring well to coat each grain in the oil. Toast the orzo for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently, until lightly golden in spots.
  4. Pour in the vegetable broth and stir. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
  5. Stir in the peas, cover again, and cook for 2–3 minutes more, until the peas are heated through and bright green.
  6. Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan until melted and creamy. Taste and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
  7. Serve warm, sprinkled with chopped fresh parsley for color and freshness.

Notes

  • If the orzo looks dry before it’s fully tender, add a splash of hot water or broth and continue simmering.
  • For a looser, more risotto-like texture, stir in an extra 1/4–1/2 cup of hot broth at the end.
  • Use low-sodium broth if you’re sensitive to salt, and adjust seasoning after adding Parmesan, which is naturally salty.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course, Side Dish
  • Method: One-Pot, Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian-inspired

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving (about 1/4 of recipe)
  • Calories: 320 kcal
  • Sugar: 4 g (approx.)
  • Sodium: 520 mg (approx., will vary with broth and cheese)
  • Fat: 13 g (approx.)
  • Saturated Fat: 4 g (approx.)
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g (approx.)
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 40 g (approx.)
  • Fiber: 3 g (approx.)
  • Protein: 11 g (approx.)
  • Cholesterol: 12 mg (approx.)

Keywords: one pot orzo, peas and parmesan, easy weeknight dinner, skillet pasta, vegetarian orzo, creamy orzo

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Find it online: https://averyrecipes.com/one-pot-orzo-with-peas-and-parmesan/