Description
Carrot Orzo is a simple, flavorful Mediterranean-inspired side dish featuring tender orzo pasta cooked with grated carrots, aromatic onions, and seasoned with fresh parsley and lemon juice. It’s a perfect, kid-friendly recipe that’s quick to prepare and can be easily customized to be dairy-free or packed with extra veggies.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cups finely grated carrots (about 3 medium carrots)
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth
Seasonings
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Finishing Touches
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Heat and sauté: In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened and translucent.
- Add carrots: Stir in the grated carrots and cook for another 2 minutes to soften and meld flavors.
- Toast orzo: Add the orzo pasta and toast it for 1–2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking and enhance its nutty flavor.
- Add broth and seasonings: Pour in the low-sodium broth, then season the mixture with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Stir to combine.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the saucepan and simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Rest: Remove the pan from heat and let it stand covered for 2 minutes to allow the flavors to fully develop.
- Finish and serve: Stir in the fresh chopped parsley and lemon juice if using. Serve warm, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired for a creamy, savory touch.
Notes
- To make this dish dairy-free, omit the butter and Parmesan or substitute with dairy-free alternatives.
- Enhance nutrition and flavor by adding peas, sautéed spinach, or other vegetables.
- Adjust salt and lemon juice to taste for optimal balance.
- This recipe pairs well with grilled proteins or can be enjoyed as a light vegetarian main.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
