Creamy Lemon Parmesan Zucchini Orzo
Creamy Lemon Parmesan Zucchini Orzo is a bright and comforting one-pan dish that brings together tender zucchini, delicate orzo, fresh lemon, and savory Parmesan cheese. The orzo cooks right in the pan, creating a naturally creamy texture without needing a heavy sauce, while lemon adds a fresh, vibrant finish. It’s an easy Italian-inspired side dish or light vegetarian meal that comes together with simple ingredients and makes a delicious way to use fresh summer zucchini.
Ingredients
- 4 cups orzo
- 2 medium zucchini cleaned and cut into dice
- 2 Tbsp. olive oil
- 1 Tbsp. butter
- 1 cup chopped red or yellow onion
- 1 Tbsp. minced garlic
- 1 cup white wine
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable stock
- 1 cup cream
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- juice from 1 lemon
- 2 Tbsp. chopped Italian parsley
Instructions
- In a large saute pan over medium high heat in the olive oil and butter saute the onion and garlic until soft and translucent
- Add the orzo to the pan and cook for a few minutes to toast. (2-3 minutes) then deglaze the pan with the wine. After the wine has been absorbed add the stock and cream cook until sauce begins to thicken ( about 10 minutes) add in the zucchini and parmesan cheese and cook 5 minutes longer.
- Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice and the Italian parsley.