Broccoli Orzo – A Quick, Flavorful, and Nutritious Side or Main Dish
Broccoli Orzo is a versatile dish that brings together the tender bite of orzo pasta with the fresh, crisp flavors of broccoli and aromatic seasonings. Each forkful offers a comforting combination of textures—soft, al dente orzo balanced by vibrant green florets and a lightly seasoned, garlicky sauce. It’s a perfect recipe for busy weeknights, potlucks, or when you want a simple yet satisfying side dish that feels fresh and wholesome.
The appeal of Broccoli Orzo lies in its simplicity and flexibility. You can dress it up with cheese, nuts, or herbs, or keep it light and healthy for a quick lunch or dinner. Minimal prep time, easy cleanup, and balanced flavors make it a go-to for home cooks who value both nutrition and taste. Beyond a side dish, Broccoli Orzo can also stand on its own as a main meal when paired with a protein like grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
Ingredients Needed
| Ingredient | Amount | Approx. Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Orzo pasta | 8 oz (about 2 cups dry) | 840 |
| Broccoli florets | 3 cups | 90 |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp | 240 |
| Garlic cloves | 3, minced | 13 |
| Lemon juice | 2 tbsp | 8 |
| Grated Parmesan cheese | ¼ cup | 110 |
| Red pepper flakes | ¼ tsp | 1 |
| Salt & pepper | to taste | negligible |
| Fresh parsley (chopped) | 2 tbsp | negligible |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Cook the Orzo
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Steam or Sauté Broccoli
While the orzo cooks, steam or lightly sauté broccoli florets until tender but still bright green. Avoid overcooking to maintain a pleasant crunch.
3. Prepare Garlic and Seasoning
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Combine Pasta and Broccoli
Add the cooked orzo and broccoli to the skillet. Toss to coat evenly with garlic and olive oil mixture.
5. Add Lemon and Cheese
Drizzle lemon juice over the pasta mixture and sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top. Toss gently to combine.
6. Finish and Serve
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve warm as a side or main dish.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
- Add Protein: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas make this a complete meal.
- Make it Creamy: Stir in a bit of cream or Greek yogurt for a richer texture.
- Boost Flavor: Add sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers, or olives.
- Make it Vegan: Skip Parmesan or use a plant-based alternative.
- Spice it Up: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika.
Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 325 |
| Protein | 10–12 g |
| Carbohydrates | 45–50 g |
| Fat | 12–14 g |
| Fiber | 4–5 g |
| Sodium | 200–250 mg |
Serving Suggestions
- Serve as a side dish with grilled chicken, fish, or steak.
- Add roasted vegetables for a hearty vegetarian meal.
- Pair with a crisp green salad for a light, balanced dinner.
- Garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh lemon wedges for added flavor.
- Perfect for meal prep—store in an airtight container and reheat gently.
Broccoli Orzo – A Quick, Flavorful, and Nutritious Side or Main Dish
4
servings10
minutes15
minutes325
kcalIngredients
8 oz orzo pasta
3 cups broccoli florets
2 tbsp olive oil
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 tbsp lemon juice
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
¼ tsp red pepper flakes
Salt & pepper, to taste
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Directions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Steam or lightly sauté broccoli until tender but still bright green.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add cooked orzo and broccoli to the skillet. Toss to coat evenly with garlic and oil.
- Drizzle with lemon juice and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Toss gently to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.
Recipe Video
Notes
- Cook the broccoli just until tender to maintain a bright green color and slight crunch.
Assemble the pasta and broccoli just before serving or store separately if making ahead to avoid soggy pasta.
FAQs
1. Can I make Broccoli Orzo ahead of time?
Yes! You can cook the orzo and broccoli in advance and store them separately or combined in an airtight container for 1–2 days. Reheat gently before serving.
2. Can I use frozen broccoli?
Absolutely! Thaw and lightly steam or sauté frozen broccoli to maintain a bright green color and slightly crisp texture.
3. What type of orzo works best?
Regular or whole wheat orzo both work well. Whole wheat adds extra fiber and a slightly nutty flavor.
4. Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes! Skip the Parmesan or use a plant-based cheese alternative. Olive oil, garlic, and lemon still provide plenty of flavor.
5. How can I add more flavor?
Toss in sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers, olives, or a pinch of smoked paprika for extra depth.
Conclusion
Broccoli Orzo is an easy, flavorful, and versatile dish that fits perfectly into any meal plan. With tender pasta, fresh broccoli, and a simple garlic-lemon dressing, it delivers both taste and nutrition in every bite. Quick to prepare and endlessly customizable, it’s ideal for busy weeknights, casual lunches, or elegant dinner sides. Once you try this recipe, it’s sure to become a staple in your weekly menu for its simplicity, freshness, and comforting flavors.
