Orzo with Parmesan and Basil
Orzo with Parmesan and Basil is a simple and delicious side dish that pairs perfectly with chicken, beef, pork or fish! Ready in less than 30 minutes.
In a side dish rut of endless rice and potatoes? This Orzo with Parmesan and Basil is a flavourful side dish that goes well with so many things. It’s easy to make, and ready in about 25 minutes. Your whole family will love it!
Add this easy side dish to your dinner rotation!
Orzo with Parmesan and Basil makes a regular appearance on our dinner table. This is a side dish that I know my kids will eat, everyone loves it! It’s cheesy, buttery and so flavourful. You just can’t go wrong with pasta, parmesan and fresh basil!
The Key is to Sauté the Orzo.
Yes. Even though orzo is a pasta, you need to sauté it in melted butter first to get it’s full flavour potential! This simple step makes the MOST flavourful orzo…buttery and kind of nutty…so don’t skip it!
Recipe Tips & Tricks
- Orzo: You can find this dried pasta in the pasta aisle of your grocery store.
- Broth: You can use either vegetable or chicken broth. I don’t recommend using water because this dish won’t be as flavourful if you do.
- Basil: Use fresh basil leaves, they have the best flavour.
- Parmesan Cheese: Use grated Parmesan cheese.
- Serve with: This side dish is wonderful served with roasted chicken, pork or fish.
- Garnish: Offer extra fresh basil sprigs and Parmesan cheese on the side.
- Flavour Options: Chopped tomatoes make a wonderful addition to this side dish. Or toss in some cooked shredded chicken and make it a meal! You can also add chopped green onions for extra flavour.
I hope you love this easy orzo recipe!
PrintOrzo with Parmesan and Basil
Orzo with Parmesan and Basil is a simple and delicious side dish that pairs perfectly with chicken, beef, pork or fish! Ready in less than 30 minutes.
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 1/2 cups orzo
- 3 cups broth (chicken or vegetable)
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/3 cup chopped fresh basil
- fresh ground pepper
Instructions
- In a skillet, or saucepan, over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Then add the dried orzo pasta, and mix well to coat the orzo in the butter.
- Stir continuously, and sauté until the orzo is lightly golden brown, about 3 – 4 minutes.
- Then stir in the broth and salt, and bring to a low boil.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover and let simmer until all of the liquid is absorbed, about 15 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese and fresh basil.
- Season with fresh ground pepper.
- Serve right away.
Recipe adapted from Best of Bridge
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More Side Dish Recipes
If you’re looking for more delicious side dish recipes, here are some of our faves!
Have a delicious day!
