Orzotto with Peas
I find I have more luck getting my son to eat vegetables when I pair them with something he really likes, such as pasta.
I find I have more luck getting my son to eat vegetables when I pair them with something he really likes, such as pasta.
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 onion diced
- salt and freshly ground pepper
- 2 tablespoons thinly sliced fresh basil
- 1 1/2 cups orzo or pearl barley
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (or chicken stock)
- 3 cups chicken stock or low-sodium broth
- 1/2 cup frozen petite green peas thawed
- 1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese plus more for topping
- 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest plus the juice of 1 lemon
- Carbohydrate 3.69717291714662 g
- Cholesterol 13.8560416843219 mg
- Fat 10.8909583520534 g
- Fiber 1.19250002503395 g
- Protein 3.74496875223617 g
- Saturated Fat 3.42638500499219 g
- Serving Size 1 1 serving (223g)
- Sodium 3821.45958341838 mg
- Sugar 2.50467289211267 g
- Trans Fat 0.414977500645163 g
- Calories 126 calories
Step-by-step
- Heat the olive oil in a heavy-bottomed medium saucepan over medium-high heat.
- Add the onion and saute until fragrant and translucent, about 2 minutes.
- Add the orzo and toast for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the wine (or stock) and cook until absorbed, about 1 minute.
- Gradually add 3 cups chicken stock, stirring frequently.
- Bring to a simmer, then lower the heat and cover.
- Cook until the liquid is almost absorbed and the orzo is tender, 8 to 10 minutes.
- Remove from the heat.
- Stir in the peas, parmesan, basil, heavy cream and lemon zest and juice.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Top each serving with more parmesan.
Orzotto with Peas: A Weeknight Winner
As a busy mom, finding quick and healthy meals that my family actually enjoys is a constant challenge. This Orzotto with Peas recipe has become a lifesaver. It’s surprisingly easy to make, even on a weeknight when time is short, and the result is a flavorful and satisfying dish that even my picky eater (my son!) devours. The secret? Pairing the vegetables with something he loves – pasta, in this case, in the form of orzo.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. It’s not just a quick meal; it’s also versatile. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables. Instead of peas, try adding asparagus, zucchini, or even some sauteed mushrooms. The creamy texture from the heavy cream and parmesan cheese complements the fresh basil and lemon zest beautifully, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. This dish isn't just a quick dinner solution; it’s also elegant enough to serve at a casual dinner party. The vibrant green peas add a pop of color to the plate, making it visually appealing as well.
This orzotto recipe perfectly bridges the gap between a quick weeknight meal and a restaurant-quality dish. The subtle sweetness of the peas, the savory notes of the parmesan, and the bright citrus zing from the lemon create a complex flavor profile that's both satisfying and refreshing. It’s a dish that satisfies both my need for a fast meal and my desire to provide nutritious and delicious food for my family.
Tips for Success:
- Use good quality olive oil for the best flavor.
- Don't overcook the orzo; it should be tender but still have a slight bite.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning to your liking.
- If you don't have white wine, chicken broth works perfectly as a substitute.
- Fresh basil is best, but you can use dried basil if necessary.
- Garnish with extra parmesan cheese for an extra touch of indulgence.
This orzotto is a testament to the fact that healthy and delicious can coexist. It’s a recipe that I will continue to make for years to come, a staple in my repertoire of quick and satisfying family meals. And who knows, it might just convince your picky eater to try some vegetables!
Beyond its deliciousness and speed, this recipe also offers a sense of satisfaction in providing a well-balanced meal for my family. Knowing that I’m giving them a nutritious and tasty dinner makes the cooking process all the more rewarding. It's a small act of love, a simple gesture of care, but it makes all the difference in our hectic weeknights.
Variations:
- Spicy Orzotto: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Vegetarian Orzotto: Substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth.
- Mushroom Orzotto: Add sautéed mushrooms for an earthy flavor.
- Shrimp Orzotto: Stir in cooked shrimp at the end for a protein boost.
So, the next time you’re looking for a quick, easy, and delicious meal that’s sure to please the whole family, give this Orzotto with Peas recipe a try. It’s a surefire hit!
