Imagine a dish so creamy, so comforting, that it transforms an ordinary weeknight dinner into a gourmet experience. This Creamy Orzo with Carrots is not just a side dish—it's a culinary journey that combines the delicate texture of orzo pasta with the sweet, vibrant notes of fresh carrots, all wrapped in a luxuriously smooth Parmesan cream sauce. Whether you're a busy home cook or a passionate food lover, this recipe promises to deliver maximum flavor with minimal effort.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup grated carrots
- 1/2 cup cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients and ensure they are measured and prepared: grate the carrots, measure out the broth, cream, and Parmesan cheese.
- In a medium saucepan, pour the vegetable broth and bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
- Add the orzo pasta to the simmering broth, stirring gently to prevent sticking. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook uncovered.
- After 6-7 minutes, when the orzo is partially cooked, add the grated carrots directly into the pan. Stir to combine.
- Continue cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes until the orzo is al dente and the carrots are tender, and most of the broth has been absorbed.
- Remove the pan from heat and stir in the cream, creating a smooth and creamy texture.
- Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts completely and integrates into the orzo.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, mixing thoroughly.
- Let the orzo rest for 2-3 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly before serving.
- Plate the creamy orzo in warm bowls, optionally garnishing with additional Parmesan or fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- Use fresh, high-quality vegetable broth for the most robust flavor base.
- Grate carrots finely to ensure they cook evenly and blend seamlessly into the dish.
- Stir the orzo frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Keep the heat at medium-low to maintain a gentle simmer and prevent burning.
- Add cream off the heat to prevent curdling and maintain a silky smooth texture.
- Let the dish rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the sauce to thicken naturally.
- For extra richness, use heavy cream instead of regular cream.
- Experiment with fresh herbs like parsley or chives as a final garnish for added freshness.
- If the orzo seems too thick, add a splash of broth or water to loosen the consistency.
- For a protein boost, consider adding cooked chicken or shrimp to make it a complete meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 201kcal
Carbohydrates: 16g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 38mg
