Summer has finally arrived, and with it comes the perfect excuse to fire up the grill, invite friends over, and indulge in refreshing, light, and oh-so-delicious dishes that scream sunshine and good vibes. And what better way to do so than with a bowl of creamy lemon orzo? This Mediterranean-inspired comfort food is a staple for many reasons – it’s easy to make, versatile, and can be served as a main course, side dish, or even as a light lunch.
In this article, we’re excited to share 20 mouthwatering recipes that showcase the beauty of creamy lemon orzo. From classic combinations like shrimp and garlic to innovative pairings like roasted vegetables and sun-dried tomatoes, we’ve got you covered with a variety of dishes that will make your taste buds dance with joy.
So, grab your apron, get ready to cook up some sunshine, and let’s dive into the world of creamy lemon orzo recipes perfect for summer!
Lemon Garlic Orzo with Shrimp
This recipe combines the comforting warmth of orzo with the brininess of shrimp, all tied together by a zesty lemon garlic sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo
– 2 cups water
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo according to package instructions using 2 cups of water. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Stir in lemon juice and cooked orzo. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Lemon Orzo with Asparagus
Brighten up your mealtime with this refreshing spring-inspired dish, featuring tender asparagus and a rich, creamy lemon orzo. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add asparagus and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until tender.
3. Reduce heat to medium and add garlic; cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in lemon juice and butter until smooth.
5. Combine cooked orzo with asparagus mixture; season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Orzo Salad with Feta and Olives
Lemon Orzo Salad with Feta and Olives: A refreshing and flavorful side dish perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a light lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/2 cup pitted and sliced Kalamata olives
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions using 2 cups of water. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice and olive oil.
3. Add cooked orzo pasta to the bowl and toss to combine with the lemon dressing.
4. Top the orzo mixture with crumbled feta cheese and sliced olives.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Lemon Herb Orzo with Grilled Chicken
A bright and flavorful dish perfect for a light and refreshing meal or as a side to impress your guests. This recipe combines the nutty goodness of orzo pasta with the zesty zip of lemon, herbs, and grilled chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups water
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp dried rosemary
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper.
2. Cook orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add thyme and rosemary; cook 1 minute.
4. Add garlic, lemon juice, and cooked orzo to the skillet. Toss until well combined.
5. Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes per side or until cooked through.
6. Serve grilled chicken on top of the lemon herb orzo. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Orzo with Spinach and Parmesan
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of orzo pasta with the brightness of lemon, the earthiness of spinach, and the salty tang of Parmesan. Perfect as a side dish for your next dinner party or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in lemon juice and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.
5. Add cooked orzo pasta, spinach leaves, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Orzo Soup with Fresh Herbs
Lemon Orzo Soup with Fresh Herbs: Brighten up a chilly day with this refreshing soup that combines the warmth of orzo with the zestiness of lemon and freshness of herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 4 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
2. Add orzo pasta and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
3. Pour in warmed chicken broth and lemon juice. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the orzo is tender.
4. Stir in chopped parsley and dill. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Lemon Orzo with Roasted Vegetables
This recipe combines the creamy goodness of orzo pasta with the natural sweetness of roasted vegetables, all tied together with a burst of citrusy lemon flavor. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, peeled and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 bell peppers, seeded and chopped
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cook orzo according to package instructions using water or broth.
3. In a large bowl, toss together olive oil, onion, garlic, carrots, and bell peppers. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Roast vegetables in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and lightly caramelized.
5. Stir in lemon juice into cooked orzo.
6. Combine roasted vegetables with orzo mixture. Serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Lemon Orzo Risotto with Peas
Brighten up your dinner table with this refreshing springtime risotto, infused with the zest of lemon and sweetness of peas. This creamy, flavorful dish is perfect for a weeknight meal or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup frozen peas
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the broth in a separate pot and keep warm.
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add orzo to the skillet, cooking for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Add lemon juice and 1/2 cup broth to the skillet. Stir until absorbed, then repeat with remaining broth in 1/2-cup increments, waiting for each portion to absorb before adding more.
5. When the orzo is tender, stir in peas. Cook until they’re heated through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: About 25-30 minutes
Lemon Orzo with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
This recipe combines the creamy texture of orzo with the tangy zest of lemon and the sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes, creating a delightful side dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Stir in chopped parsley, sun-dried tomatoes, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
4. Combine cooked orzo with the skillet mixture.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Orzo with Grilled Salmon
Brighten up your dinner table with this flavorful and refreshing dish, combining the sweetness of lemon orzo with the smokiness of grilled salmon. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 lemons, cut into wedges
Instructions:
1. Bring orzo and water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until al dente.
2. Stir in lemon juice, olive oil, and parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Grill for 4-6 minutes per side or until cooked through.
4. Serve grilled salmon on top of lemon orzo, garnished with a lemon wedge.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Orzo Pasta Salad with Arugula
This refreshing summer salad combines the warmth of orzo pasta with the brightness of lemon and the peppery flavor of arugula, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 2 cups arugula
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine arugula, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Toss to combine.
3. Add cooked orzo pasta to the bowl and toss gently to combine with the arugula mixture.
4. Top with crumbled feta cheese, if using.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Orzo with Mushrooms and Thyme
This bright and savory side dish combines the creamy texture of orzo with the earthy flavor of mushrooms, all tied together with a squeeze of lemon and a sprinkle of thyme.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mushrooms (such as cremini or shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the orzo according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the mushrooms and garlic to the skillet. Cook until the mushrooms release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the lemon juice and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Fluff the cooked orzo with a fork and add it to the skillet. Toss everything together until the orzo is well coated with the mushroom mixture.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Orzo with Artichokes and Capers
Lemon Orzo with Artichokes and Capers: A bright and citrusy side dish that’s perfect for accompanying your favorite grilled meats or as a light and refreshing main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 can artichoke hearts (14 oz), drained and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup capers, rinsed and drained
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the artichoke hearts, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Stir in the cooked orzo pasta, capers, and chopped parsley (if using). Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until heated through.
5. Serve warm, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Orzo with Burrata and Basil
This recipe combines the creamy richness of burrata cheese with the bright, citrusy flavor of lemon orzo. Perfect for a light and refreshing side dish or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo
– 3 cups water
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 8 oz burrata cheese, torn into small pieces
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
Instructions:
1. Bring orzo and water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until orzo is tender.
2. Stir in lemon juice, olive oil, and salt.
3. Fluff orzo with a fork. Top with burrata cheese and chopped basil leaves.
4. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Lemon Orzo with Roasted Cherry Tomatoes
Brighten up your mealtime with this vibrant and flavorful side dish, featuring the sweetness of cherry tomatoes and the tanginess of lemon. This simple yet impressive recipe is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook orzo according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
3. In a separate bowl, toss cherry tomatoes with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Spread tomatoes on a baking sheet and roast for 15-20 minutes, or until tender and lightly caramelized.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked orzo, roasted tomatoes, and lemon juice. Mix well to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Orzo with Zucchini and Mint
This vibrant side dish combines the warmth of orzo pasta with the cooling flavors of zucchini, mint, and a squeeze of lemon. Perfect for a light and satisfying summer meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add zucchini slices and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until tender and lightly browned.
3. Stir in chopped mint leaves and lemon juice. Cook for an additional minute to allow flavors to meld.
4. Combine cooked orzo pasta with the zucchini mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve warm, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Orzo with Chickpeas and Feta
This vibrant and flavorful recipe combines the comforting warmth of orzo pasta with the brightness of lemon, the earthiness of chickpeas, and the tanginess of feta cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the chickpeas, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Add the cooked orzo to the skillet, stirring to combine with the chickpea mixture.
5. Top with crumbled feta cheese. Serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley or dill if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Orzo with Roasted Garlic and Lemon Zest
Brighten up your meals with this flavorful and aromatic side dish, perfect for accompanying grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or as a base for salads. The combination of creamy orzo, pungent roasted garlic, and tangy lemon zest will transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo
– 2 cups water
– 3 cloves garlic
– 2 lemons
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast garlic: Cut top off garlic head, drizzle with olive oil, and wrap in foil. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
3. Cook orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. Zest lemons using a zester or fine grater. Squeeze juice from one lemon into the cooked orzo; mix well.
5. Add roasted garlic, salt, and pepper to the orzo mixture; stir until combined.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Lemon Orzo with Toasted Pine Nuts
This refreshing orzo dish is perfect for a springtime dinner party or as a quick weeknight side. The combination of lemon, garlic, and toasted pine nuts adds depth and brightness to this simple yet flavorful recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts (see note)
– Grated zest of 1 lemon (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring orzo and water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until al dente.
2. Stir in lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. In a small skillet, toast pine nuts over medium heat, stirring frequently, until fragrant and lightly browned (about 5 minutes).
4. Combine cooked orzo with toasted pine nuts and grated lemon zest (if using). Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Orzo with Fresh Dill and Cucumber
This refreshing summer side dish combines the creamy goodness of orzo pasta with the brightness of lemon, the coolness of cucumber, and the subtlety of fresh dill. Perfect for a light and satisfying accompaniment to your favorite grilled meats or seafood.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 1/2 cucumber, peeled and thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice and olive oil. Add the cooked orzo, chopped fresh dill, and thinly sliced cucumber.
3. Toss gently to combine. Season with salt to taste.
4. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Beat the heat this summer with these refreshing and flavorful creamy lemon orzo recipes. From seafood-inspired dishes like Lemon Garlic Orzo with Shrimp to vegetarian delights such as Creamy Lemon Orzo with Asparagus, there’s something for everyone. These 20 mouthwatering recipes combine the comforting warmth of orzo with the bright, citrusy taste of lemon, perfect for a light and satisfying meal on a warm summer day.
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