Quick and Easy Lemon Orzo with Parmesan and Peas

ohsweetbasil.com

As the winter is starting to melt away we make recipes that scream spring like this quick and easy lemon orzo with Parmesan and peas.

ohsweetbasil.com

How to Make Lemon Orzo

1. The basic steps for this lemon orzo recipe are similar to the tips we shared above. To make this easy dinner, you must do the following: 
2. Toast the orzo in a little olive oil.
3. Stir in the garlic and thyme, then pour in the broth. 
4. Let the orzo simmer until the liquid has been absorbed. 
5. Stir in the lemon zest, juice, and peas and continue cooking until the peas are bright. 
6. Stir in the cheese, salt, and pepper. 
7. Note that the cooking rule for acid is to add it last, which is why the zest and lemon juice go in at the very end along with the cheese and peas. That way everything is fresh and bright and the flavor isn’t diluted by the time you’re ready to serve this lemon orzo. 

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 Cups Dry Orzo Pasta
• 1 Tablespoon Olive oil
• 2 Cloves Garlic minced
• 3 Cups Chicken Broth
• 1 Teaspoon Fresh Thyme Leaves
• 1 Lemon zested
• Juice of Half a lemon
• 1 1/2 Cups Peas
• 1/3 Cup Grated Parmesan cheese plus more for garnish
• Fresh Cracked Pepper
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil and pasta.
2. Cook, stirring occasionally until toasted, about 30-60 seconds.
3. Add garlic and stir it in followed by thyme.
4. Add the broth, a small amount at a time.
5. Bring to a boil, cover the skillet with a lid and turn down to a simmer for 8-10 minutes or until the pasta has absorbed most of the water and is tender.
6. Remove the lid and add the lemon zest, juice, and peas and stir until the peas are bright and cooked.
7. Add the cheese and salt and pepper to taste and serve immediately.