Veggie Orzo is a delightful dish that’s perfect for busy days. This simple and creamy meal comes together quickly, making it a great choice for families. With a mix of fresh veggies and comforting orzo, this dish is both filling and tasty.
Why You Will Love This Veggie Orzo
This Veggie Orzo is a fantastic recipe for many reasons. It’s easy to make and doesn’t require fancy ingredients. The blend of tender broccoli and sweet carrots adds a pop of color and nutrition. Plus, it’s creamy and comforting, perfect for everyone in the family. It’s also a one-pot meal, which means less cleanup time for you!
How to Make Veggie Orzo
Making Veggie Orzo is a simple process that anyone can follow. You’ll be sautéing fresh vegetables, adding orzo, and letting it all cook together in a flavorful broth. The final dish is creamy and delicious, sure to please even picky eaters.
What You Need
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup broccoli (chopped)
- 1 cup carrots (finely shredded)
- 2 tsp garlic (minced)
- 1 cup orzo
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 oz cream cheese
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese
Step-by-Step
First, chop the broccoli florets into small pieces and shred the carrots finely. In a medium pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped broccoli, shredded carrots, and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften slightly and become fragrant.
Next, add the orzo and chicken broth to the pot. Bring this to a boil and then reduce the heat to medium-high. Cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The orzo should absorb most of the chicken broth by the time it’s done cooking.
Once the orzo is tender and the broth is mostly absorbed, stir in the cream cheese and parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheeses are fully melted and the dish is creamy. Allow the Veggie Orzo to cool slightly before serving to your toddler. It’s delicious as is, or you can pair it with grilled chicken or fish for added protein.
How to Serve Veggie Orzo
There are so many ways to enjoy Veggie Orzo! Serve it warm as a main dish, or alongside grilled chicken or fish for a balanced meal. You can also add a sprinkle of extra parmesan cheese on top for a cheesy touch. This dish is perfect for family dinners or even as a comforting lunch.
How to Store Veggie Orzo
To keep leftovers fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They should be good for 3 to 4 days. If you want to freeze Veggie Orzo, place it in a freezer-safe container. It can last for about 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat it, just thaw and reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Recipe Tips
- Timing: Keep an eye on the orzo while it cooks to avoid it becoming mushy.
- Texture: For added crunch, toss in some toasted nuts before serving.
- Ingredient Swaps: You can use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
- Storage: Make sure the dish is cooled before storing to avoid moisture buildup.
- Mistakes to Avoid: Don’t skip stirring occasionally while cooking to prevent sticking.
Variations & Swaps
- Cheesy Veggie Orzo: Add a mix of your favorite cheeses, like cheddar or gouda.
- Protein Boost: Stir in cooked chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
- Different Veggies: Feel free to use other vegetables like peas or zucchini for a twist.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead and store it in the fridge. Just reheat before serving.
Can I freeze Veggie Orzo?
Yes! Let it cool, then freeze in a suitable container for up to 2 months.
What can I substitute for chicken broth?
Vegetable broth works well for a vegetarian option, or you can use water with seasoning.
How can I reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a little added broth for moisture.
What mistake should I avoid when making this?
Make sure to stir occasionally while cooking to prevent the orzo from sticking to the pot.
Veggie Orzo
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil For sautéing vegetables
- 1 cup broccoli (chopped) Fresh, cut into small pieces
- 1 cup carrots (finely shredded) Fresh, shredded for faster cooking
- 2 tsp garlic (minced) Adds flavor
- 1 cup orzo Pasta used in the dish
- 2 cups chicken broth Can be substituted with vegetable broth
- 1 oz cream cheese For creaminess
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese Grated, for flavor and richness
Instructions
Preparation
- Chop the broccoli florets into small pieces and shred the carrots finely.
- In a medium pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped broccoli, shredded carrots, and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften slightly and become fragrant.
Cooking
- Add the orzo and chicken broth to the pot. Bring this to a boil and then reduce the heat to medium-high.
- Cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The orzo should absorb most of the chicken broth by the time it’s done cooking.
- Once the orzo is tender and the broth is mostly absorbed, stir in the cream cheese and parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheeses are fully melted and the dish is creamy.
Serving
- Allow the Veggie Orzo to cool slightly before serving. It can be enjoyed as is, or paired with grilled chicken or fish for added protein.
