Orzo with Parmesan and Basil

Orzo with Parmesan and Basil Recipe - Italian Cuisine

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 5 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Orzo with Parmesan and Basil is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a cozy night in or a special dinner with loved ones. This recipe combines the rich flavors of Parmesan cheese and fresh basil with the delicate texture of orzo pasta, creating a dish that is both satisfying and flavorful.

History

Orzo with Parmesan and Basil is a classic Italian dish that has been enjoyed for generations. The combination of pasta, cheese, and herbs is a staple in Italian cuisine, and this recipe puts a modern twist on a traditional favorite.

Ingredients

3 tbsp of unsalted butter
1.5 cups of orzo (rice shaped pasta)
3 cups of chicken broth (canned or homemade)
0.5 cup of grated parmesan cheese
6 tbsp of fresh basil, julienne or 0.5 tbsp of dried basil, crumbled
salt
pepper
fresh basil sprigs for garnish

How to prepare

Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the orzo and sauté for 2 minutes.
Pour in the broth and bring it to a boil.
Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer until the orzo is tender and the liquid is absorbed, approximately 20 minutes.
Stir in the Parmesan cheese and julienned basil.
Season with salt and pepper.
Transfer the orzo to a shallow bowl.
Garnish with basil sprigs and serve.

Variations

Add in cooked chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
Mix in roasted vegetables like cherry tomatoes or zucchini for added flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to use a large skillet to cook the orzo, as it will need plenty of room to cook evenly.

- Stir the orzo occasionally while it is cooking to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the skillet.

- Feel free to add in additional ingredients such as cooked chicken or vegetables to make this dish even heartier.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this dish as a main course with a side salad or roasted vegetables.

- It also makes a great side dish for grilled chicken or fish.

Cooking Techniques

Sauté the orzo before adding the broth to enhance its nutty flavor.

- Simmer the orzo covered to allow it to cook evenly and absorb the flavors of the broth.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version of this dish.

- Substitute pecorino cheese for Parmesan for a sharper flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the orzo ahead of time and reheat it before serving.

- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the dish with additional fresh basil leaves for a pop of color. - Serve the orzo in individual bowls for a more elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this dish with a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.

- A side of garlic bread or a simple green salad would complement this dish nicely.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Reheat the orzo in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

- Each serving of this dish contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

- Orzo pasta is a good source of carbohydrates, providing energy for your body.

- Each serving of this dish contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

- The butter and Parmesan cheese in this recipe provide a rich and creamy texture.

- Each serving of this dish contains approximately 12 grams of fat.

Proteins

- Parmesan cheese is a good source of protein, helping to keep you feeling full and satisfied.

- Each serving of this dish contains approximately 8 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Fresh basil is a great source of vitamins A and K, as well as minerals like iron and calcium.

- Each serving of this dish contains a variety of essential vitamins and minerals.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy in the form of butter and Parmesan cheese.

- If you have a dairy allergy, you can try substituting dairy-free alternatives.

Summary

Orzo with Parmesan and Basil is a balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals.

- It is a satisfying and delicious meal that can be enjoyed as a main course or a side dish.

Summary

Orzo with Parmesan and Basil is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I can still remember the exact moment I discovered this recipe for Orzo with Parmesan and Basil. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my friend Maggie in her cozy kitchen. Maggie was an incredible cook, and she always had a way of making the simplest ingredients taste absolutely delicious.

As we sat at her kitchen table, sipping on some freshly brewed tea, Maggie suddenly jumped up and exclaimed, "I have the perfect recipe to share with you today!" She rummaged through her cookbook collection until she found a worn and weathered page with the title "Orzo with Parmesan and Basil."

I watched intently as Maggie gathered the ingredients and began to cook. She carefully sautéed the orzo in a bit of butter until it was perfectly golden brown. Then she added in some chicken broth and let it simmer until the orzo was tender and flavorful. Finally, she stirred in a generous amount of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a handful of fragrant basil leaves.

The aroma that filled the kitchen was absolutely divine. I couldn't wait to dig in and taste this mouthwatering dish. As I took my first bite, I knew that this recipe was something truly special. The combination of the nutty orzo, creamy Parmesan, and aromatic basil was a match made in culinary heaven.

From that moment on, I was hooked. I knew that I had to learn how to make this recipe for myself so that I could enjoy it whenever I pleased. Maggie graciously shared the recipe with me, and I quickly added it to my ever-growing collection of cherished recipes.

Over the years, I have made Orzo with Parmesan and Basil countless times. It has become a staple in my kitchen, and I never tire of its comforting and delicious flavors. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, and it has always been met with rave reviews.

But what makes this recipe truly special to me is the memory of that summer day in Maggie's kitchen. It was a day filled with laughter, good food, and the joy of discovering something new and delicious. It was a day that I will always hold dear in my heart.

And so, whenever I make Orzo with Parmesan and Basil, I am transported back to that moment in time. I can almost hear Maggie's laughter and feel the warmth of her kitchen. It is a reminder of the power of food to bring people together and create lasting memories.

As I sit down to enjoy a steaming bowl of Orzo with Parmesan and Basil, I am grateful for the recipe that brought me so much joy and for the friend who shared it with me. Cooking is not just about preparing food; it is about creating moments that nourish the soul and feed the heart. And this recipe, with its simple yet exquisite flavors, does just that.