Orzo Pasta with butter and herbs makes a quick and delicious side dish. Orzo is a rice shaped pasta and is perfect for a quick side dish. This orzo is finished with shredded Parmesan cheese.
These past couple of weeks have been crazy busy in our household; school, work, soccer practice, games, cheerleader practice, football games, soccer tournaments. Sometimes we rush home and getting dinner on the table is an urgent affair.
The kids are starving and want dinner! Fast, easy and homemade can be hard to achieve. This Orzo Pasta is one of our favorites. It's super fast and easy and everyone loves it.
What is orzo pasta?
Orzo pasta is a small, rice shaped pasta. Because it's so small, it cooks relatively fast. Use a very fine strainer when draining so the pasta doesn't slip through the holes. Another great recipe using orzo is this Asparagus Salad.
How long do you cook orzo pasta?
Orzo cooks in 7-10 minutes. You cook orzo just like you would any type of pasta. Make certain your water is boiling before adding the orzo.
Can I use other herbs?
Yes, you can use different herbs than the Italian seasoning blend. Some options include:
- Dried or fresh basil
- Dried or fresh thyme
- Dried or fresh parsley
What is a great main dish to serve with orzo?
You can serve this dish with just about anything. Some of my favorites are Lemon Rosemary Grilled Chicken and Beer Can Chicken. It's also perfect with Pan Fried Walleye.
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If you make this recipe, I’d love to hear about it! Leave a comment below and snap a picture and tag me on Instagram @beyondthechickencoop
This post was originally published in October, 2015. The pictures and text have been updated.
Orzo Pasta, Side Dish
Ingredients
- 8 oz orzo pasta (uncooked)
- 2 Tablespoons butter
- ¼ teaspoon garlic salt
- ¼ teaspoon Italian seasoning blend (dried herbs)
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese (shredded)
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package directions.
- Drain and place in a serving bowl.
- Add butter. Stir until melted.
- Sprinkle garlic salt and Italian seasoning. Stir.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese, reserving a Tablespoon to sprinkle on top.
- Serve.
Nutrition
Kelly | Foodtasia says
Kathy, I love the simplicity of this dish. Orzo has such a wonderful chew. And the buttery herb topping is perfect!
Alix @A Hedgehog in the Kitchen says
This sounds and looks delicious! I love orzo pasta!
Kathy says
Me too! It's such a fast and easy dish and loved by everyone!