lemon pepper orzo

Author of this recipe: Beverley Chouteau

"Try this zesty lemon pepper orzo recipe! A quick, flavorful side dish with fresh lemon, black pepper, and Parmesan. Perfect for any meal!"

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Ingredients

• Here’s a list of ingredients for **Lemon Pepper Orzo**, formatted with SEO-friendly keywords to help your recipe rank better:
• - **Orzo pasta** (1 cup) - A rice-shaped pasta perfect for light and flavorful dishes.
• - **Fresh lemon juice** (2-3 tablespoons) - Adds a bright, citrusy flavor to the dish.
• - **Lemon zest** (1 tablespoon) - Enhances the lemon flavor with aromatic notes.
• - **Olive oil** (2 tablespoons) - A healthy fat for sautéing and adding richness.
• - **Garlic** (2 cloves, minced) - Provides a savory depth of flavor.
• - **Vegetable broth** (2 cups) - Cooks the orzo and infuses it with flavor.
• - **Black pepper** (1 teaspoon, freshly ground) - Adds a bold, peppery kick.
• - **Salt** (to taste) - Balances the flavors of the dish.
• - **Parmesan cheese** (½ cup, grated) - Adds a creamy, nutty finish.
• - **Fresh parsley** (2 tablespoons, chopped) - For a fresh, herby garnish.
• - **Red pepper flakes** (optional, ¼ teaspoon) - Adds a hint of heat for spice lovers.
• - **Butter** (1 tablespoon, optional) - For extra richness and creaminess.
• This **easy lemon pepper orzo recipe** is perfect for a quick side dish or light main course. It’s packed with **zesty lemon flavor**, **bold pepper notes**, and **creamy Parmesan** for a dish that’s both refreshing and satisfying.

Steps

1. # How to Make Lemon Pepper Orzo: A Flavorful and Easy Recipe
3. Lemon pepper orzo is a bright, zesty, and comforting dish that combines the tangy flavor of lemon with the warmth of black pepper. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a side dish for special occasions. Follow these detailed steps to create a delicious lemon pepper orzo that’s sure to impress.
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7. ## **Ingredients for Lemon Pepper Orzo**
8. - 1 cup orzo pasta
9. - 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth (for added flavor)
10. - 2 tablespoons olive oil
11. - 2 cloves garlic, minced
12. - Zest and juice of 1 large lemon
13. - 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (adjust to taste)
14. - 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
15. - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
16. - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
17. - 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
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21. ## **Step-by-Step Instructions**
23. ### **1. Cook the Orzo**
24. - In a medium-sized pot, bring the broth to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain any excess liquid and set aside.
26. ### **2. Sauté the Garlic**
27. - Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. This step infuses the oil with garlic flavor, which is key to the dish.
29. ### **3. Add Lemon and Seasonings**
30. - Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, black pepper, and salt. Mix well to combine. For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes at this stage.
32. ### **4. Combine Orzo with the Lemon Mixture**
33. - Add the cooked orzo to the skillet and toss to coat it evenly with the lemon and garlic mixture. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
35. ### **5. Add Cheese (Optional)**
36. - If using Parmesan cheese, sprinkle it over the orzo and stir until melted and well incorporated. This adds a creamy, savory element to the dish.
38. ### **6. Garnish and Serve**
39. - Remove the skillet from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve warm as a main dish or a side to grilled chicken, fish, or roasted vegetables.
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43. ## **Tips for Perfect Lemon Pepper Orzo**
44. - Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best flavor. Bottled lemon juice can lack the brightness of fresh lemons.
45. - Adjust the black pepper to your preference. For a stronger pepper flavor, increase the amount slightly.
46. - For a vegan version, skip the Parmesan cheese or use a plant-based alternative.
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50. ## **Why You’ll Love This Recipe**
51. This lemon pepper orzo recipe is quick, easy, and packed with flavor. It’s a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of proteins and vegetables. The combination of tangy lemon and bold pepper creates a refreshing and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
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55. **Keywords**: lemon pepper orzo, easy orzo recipe, lemon orzo pasta, quick dinner ideas, flavorful side dish, lemon pepper pasta, orzo with garlic and lemon
57. By following these steps, you’ll have a delicious lemon pepper orzo dish that’s both simple to make and full of vibrant flavors. Enjoy!

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