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Veggie Orzo

Creamy Veggie Orzo: A Cozy Dish Everyone Will Love

Creamy Veggie Orzo is a quick, toddler-friendly meal packed with hidden veggies, perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Cooling Time 5 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Orzo
  • 1 cup Orzo Substitute with gluten-free orzo, quinoa, or small pasta for a gluten-free option.
  • 2 cups Chicken Broth Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
For the Vegetables
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil Alternatively, use butter or avocado oil.
  • 1 cup Broccoli Chopped; can replace with spinach, peas, or any preferred green.
  • 1 cup Carrots Finely shredded; substitute with zucchini or bell peppers for variety.
  • 2 teaspoons Garlic Minced; garlic powder works as a substitute.
For the Creamy Sauce
  • 1 oz Cream Cheese Use plant-based cream cheese for a dairy-free version.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Alternatively, use mozzarella or a dairy-free cheese.

Equipment

  • medium pot

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Creamy Veggie Orzo
  1. Prepare the vegetables by chopping broccoli into small pieces and finely shredding the carrots. Set them aside.
  2. In a medium pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped broccoli, shredded carrots, and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes until soft and fragrant.
  3. Stir in 1 cup of orzo and pour in 2 cups of chicken broth. Bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer, and cook for 10-15 minutes until liquid is absorbed and orzo is tender.
  4. Turn off the heat and stir in 1 ounce of cream cheese and 1/2 cup of grated parmesan until melted and creamy.
  5. Allow to cool for a moment before serving. Enjoy as is or pair with grilled chicken or fish.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 12gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 5gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 1200IUVitamin C: 40mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge, or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat on the stove with a splash of broth to restore creaminess.

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