Orzo Pasta with Peas and Parmesan Cheese
Learn How-to Make a Quick and Creamy Pasta Side Dish
Aug 14, 2009
Orzo has a smooth consistency, similar to risotto. But unlike risotto, that requires constant stirring, orzo is a pasta that is very easy to cook. Orzo, which looks a bit like a fat, flattened grain of rice grain, is actually a variety of pasta.
This side dish recipe makes approximately 8 servings of orzo pasta. Leftover orzo can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week, or in the freezer for up to one month. To reheat orzo, add the desired amount to a pan, and pour in a bit of chicken broth or chicken stock. Cook on medium heat until heated through.
Hearty Pasta Side Dish
For a heartier side dish, stir in a bit of cooked chicken or shrimp after the orzo has absorbed all the liquid ingredients. For a complete meal, serve the orzo pasta with a green salad and grilled fish, chicken or seafood.
Orzo with Peas and Parmesan Cheese Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium to large onion - minced
- 2-3 cloves garlic - minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh oregano
- 1 pound orzo pasta
- 4 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1 1/4 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- Salt
- Pepper
Orzo with Peas and Parmesan Cheese Directions
- Add the butter and olive oil to a large pan or stock pot placed over medium heat.
- Add the onions, and let sweat for approximately 5 minutes, or until they begin to turn translucent.
- Stir in the garlic and oregano and cook for one more minute.
- Stir in the orzo, and cook for 3-5 minutes until golden brown, stirring occasionally.
- Add the chicken broth and wine, and bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low and continue cooking, while stirring occasionally, until most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Stir in the frozen peas, Parmesan cheese and nutmeg.
- Let the peas heat through, then remove the pan from the stove.
- Add salt and pepper to taste.
Recipe Tips and Suggestions
1. One teaspoon dry oregano can be substituted for the fresh oregano if necessary.
2. Marjoram or thyme can be substituted for the oregano, if desired.
3. Lightly steamed, chopped broccoli or asparagus can be substituted for the peas.
4. A vegetarian version of the orzo can be created by substituted vegetable broth for the chicken broth.
5. Serve the orzo with additional grated cheese sprinkled on top and a bit of fresh chives.
Additional Side Dish Recipes
See the creamy, cheesy broccoli risotto article to learn how-to create a traditional risotto rice side dish. The lemon herb pasta toss article has a recipe for creating a pasta dish that is flavored with lemon juice, lemon zest, oregano, parsley and garlic.
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