Description
Elevate your dinner table with this Orzo Rice Pilaf with Garlic and Herbs, a delightful Mediterranean-inspired side dish that transforms simple orzo pasta into something truly special. The toasted orzo absorbs the aromatic vegetable broth, infused with garlic, thyme, and oregano, creating a perfect companion to grilled vegetables, fish, or just about anything on your menu.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
- Mix in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, ensuring the garlic does not burn.
- Add the orzo pasta into the saucepan, stirring frequently for about 2 minutes until it begins to lightly brown.
- Pour in the vegetable broth, and add the thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the orzo is tender and the broth is absorbed.
- Take the saucepan off the heat and fluff the orzo with a fork. Incorporate the fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese, if desired.
- Serve warm as a delicious side or a light meal.
Notes
- For a vegan version, simply omit the Parmesan cheese.
- You can substitute dried herbs with fresh ones: use 1 tablespoon fresh thyme and 1 tablespoon fresh oregano.
- This dish reheats beautifully – add a splash of broth or water when warming leftovers.
- For extra depth of flavor, toast the orzo in olive oil until it turns golden brown before adding the broth.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 5mg (if using Parmesan)
Keywords: orzo pilaf, garlic herbs, pasta side dish, Mediterranean cooking, easy side dish