I love this dish because the creamy parmesan sauce perfectly balances the tender orzo and sweet peas. The blend of garlic and onion creates an inviting aroma that fills the kitchen, and the dish works effortlessly as a side to any protein. It’s comforting, simple, and ideal for a satisfying yet chill meal.

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I want to share my recipe for Parmesan Orzo and Peas. I use 1 cup orzo pasta, 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth, and 1 cup sweet peas.

This dish is a very balanced side that pairs well with your favourite protein. I dice 1 small yellow onion and mince 2 cloves garlic, then cook these in 1 teaspoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon unsalted butter until they are soft and fragrant.

The pasta is simmered in broth which gives it a nice flavour and a smoother texture while absorbing the taste of the onion and garlic. After the orzo has softened, I add 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese along with salt and ground black pepper to taste.

This side is both light and nutritious providing a mix of protein and carbohydrates for energy. It is a healthy option and a versatile pasta side dish thats perfect when you want to add extra veggie goodness to your meal.

Why I Like this Recipe

1. I love how quick and easy it is to whip up, making me feel like a real chef even on busy days.
2. I enjoy the creamy, cheesy flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweet peas and garlicky orzo.
3. I like that it’s super versatile and goes well with any protein I decide to serve.
4. I appreciate how everything comes together in one pan, so there’s hardly any cleanup afterward.

This recipe is a super easy side dish that pairs great with whatever protein I have on hand. The orzo and sweet peas get totally coated in a light Parmesan sauce mixed with onions and garlic, giving it that comforting, home-cooked vibe. I really like how the flavors meld together so wonderfully even though the recipe is pretty simple. It’s one of those dishes that just feels tasty and satisfying every time I make it.

Ingredients

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Orzo pasta: A small, rice-shaped pasta providing hearty carbohydrates for energy.
Chicken broth: A savory liquid that infuses the dish with rich umami flavor.
Sweet peas: Bright natural sweetness and fiber, adding texture and a pop of color.
Yellow onion: Adds mild sharpness and depth to balance flavors in the dish.
Garlic: Provides an aromatic kick and boosts overall flavor with minimal calories.
Parmesan cheese: Gives a salty, nutty taste and a boost of protein.
Butter and olive oil: Combined for creaminess and enhanced richness in every bite.
Salt and pepper: Season to taste creating balanced flavor and bright contrast.

Ingredient Quantities

1 cup orzo pasta

2 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or veggie broth if you prefer)

1 cup sweet peas (fresh or frozen)

1 small yellow onion, diced

2 garlic cloves, minced

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 tablespoon unsalted butter

1 teaspoon olive oil

Salt, to taste

Ground black pepper, to taste

How to Make this

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1. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.

2. Add the diced yellow onion to the skillet and cook until it’s soft, about 3-4 minutes.

3. Toss in the minced garlic and let it cook for around a minute until its smell fills the kitchen.

4. Stir in the orzo pasta and let it toast lightly for about 1-2 minutes.

5. Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.

6. Mix in the sweet peas, whether they’re fresh or frozen, into the pan.

7. Let it all cook for around 8-10 minutes until the orzo is tender and most of the broth has been absorbed.

8. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese so it melts into a creamy sauce.

9. Season with salt and ground black pepper to taste.

10. Give everything a good mix and serve hot alongside your favorite protein. Enjoy!

Equipment Needed

1. A large skillet
2. A chef’s knife
3. A cutting board
4. Measuring cups
5. A measuring spoon
6. A wooden spoon or spatula
7. A grater

FAQ

Can I use frozen peas? Yes, you can use frozen peas, just make sure they are defrosted slightly before adding them so they don't release too much water.

Is veggie broth a good substitute for chicken broth? Absolutely, look perfect if you use veggie broth instead. It gives a slightly different flavour but still delicious.

How long does the orzo need to cook? The orzo cooks pretty fast, in about 8 to 10 minutes. Keep an eye on it so it doesnt get mushy.

Can I add other veggies to this dish? Sure can, some spinach or cherry tomatoes would be a great addition. Just remember to adjust seasonings if needed.

Is there a way to make it dairy free? If you need it dairy free, you can skip the Parmesan or use a non dairy alternative, but the taste will change a bit.

Parmesan Orzo And Peas Recipe Substitutions and Variations

Low-sodium chicken broth: If you dont have that, you can dissolve a bouillon cube in water or use veggie broth to keep it light.
Parmesan cheese: You could try Pecorino Romano or Asiago as an alternative for a slightly different but tasty flavor.
Orzo pasta: If you cant find orzo, small macaroni, rice, or even quinoa work pretty well in a pinch.
Unsalted butter: Extra olive oil or a bit of margarine can substitute if you run out of butter.

Pro Tips

1. Make sure you keep a close eye on the orzo as you toast it, because it can burn quick. Toasting it just right brings out a nutty flavor that really makes the dish pop.
2. If youre using frozen peas, you dont need to thaw them first but give em an extra minute or two to cook through so they heat evenly and dont come out too crunchy.
3. Stir in the Parmesan cheese off the heat so it melts evenly, cause if the sauce is too hot the cheese can clump and ruin the creamy texture.
4. Season slowly and taste along the way since the broth and cheese already add some saltiness, so you can adjust things just to your liking.
5. If you feel like experimenting, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a sprinkle of fresh basil right at the end for a little extra kick.