Veggie Orzo Recipe

Introduction

Veggie Orzo is a creamy, comforting dish packed with tender broccoli, shredded carrots, and cheesy goodness. Perfect as a quick weeknight meal or a toddler-friendly option, it’s both nutritious and delicious.

Ingredients

• 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

Instructions

1. Step 1: Chop the broccoli florets into small pieces and finely shred the carrots.
2. Step 2: In a medium pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped broccoli, shredded carrots, and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften and become fragrant.
3. Step 3: Add the orzo and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-high and cook for 10-15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The orzo should absorb most of the broth by the end of cooking. Add more broth if needed to finish cooking the orzo.
4. Step 4: Once the orzo is tender and most of the broth has been absorbed, stir in the cream cheese and parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheeses melt completely and create a creamy texture.
5. Step 5: Let the Veggie Orzo cool slightly before serving. Enjoy it as is or paired with grilled chicken or fish for added protein.

Tips & Variations

• Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle spicy kick.
• Swap cream cheese for mascarpone for an even richer flavor.
• Stir in fresh herbs like parsley or basil just before serving to brighten the dish.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of broth or water to restore creaminess.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other vegetables instead of broccoli and carrots?

Yes, feel free to substitute with vegetables like zucchini, peas, or spinach based on your preference or what you have on hand.

Is this recipe suitable for toddlers?

Absolutely. The soft cooked vegetables and creamy texture make it easy for toddlers to eat. Just ensure it has cooled to a safe temperature before serving.

Veggie Orzo Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 92 reviews

• Author: Simon
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Low Fat

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Description

A creamy and comforting Veggie Orzo dish featuring tender orzo pasta cooked with sautéed broccoli, shredded carrots, garlic, and enriched with cream cheese and parmesan for a flavorful, family-friendly meal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Vegetables

• 1 cup broccoli (chopped)
• 1 cup carrots (finely shredded)
• 2 tsp garlic (minced)

Pasta & Broth

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup orzo
• 2 cups chicken broth

Cheeses

• 1 oz cream cheese
• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese

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Instructions

1. Prepare Vegetables: Chop the broccoli florets into small pieces and finely shred the carrots to ensure they cook evenly and blend well with the orzo.
2. Sauté Vegetables: In a medium pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped broccoli, shredded carrots, and minced garlic. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the vegetables soften and the garlic becomes fragrant.
3. Cook Orzo: Add the orzo and chicken broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-high and let it cook uncovered for 10-15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the orzo from sticking. The orzo should absorb most of the broth; add more broth if necessary to finish cooking.
4. Add Cheeses: Once the orzo is tender and most of the broth is absorbed, stir in the cream cheese and parmesan cheese. Mix well until the cheeses have melted and the dish is creamy and smooth.
5. Serve: Let the Veggie Orzo cool slightly before serving. It works perfectly on its own or paired with grilled chicken or fish for added protein.

Notes

• Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the sodium content.
• You can substitute cream cheese with mascarpone for a richer texture.
• For a vegetarian option, replace chicken broth with vegetable broth.
• Adding freshly cracked black pepper enhances the flavor.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: veggie orzo, creamy orzo, broccoli orzo, vegetable pasta, easy dinner, quick stovetop pasta