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Broccoli Orzo with White Beans, Lemon and Parmesan

Creamy Broccoli Orzo with White Beans, Lemon, and Parmesan Delight

This Broccoli Orzo with White Beans, Lemon and Parmesan is a wholesome and quick dinner option bursting with flavor.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Orzo
  • 1 cup Dry Orzo Pasta can substitute with ditalini or small shells
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil can be swapped with avocado oil
For the Vegetables
  • 2 cups Broccoli Florets fresh is ideal, but frozen works
  • 2 cloves Garlic minced for best flavor
For Creaminess
  • 1 can White Beans (Cannellini or Great Northern) drained and rinsed
  • 1 tablespoon Unsalted Butter optional for creaminess
For Flavor
  • 4 cups Low-Sodium Vegetable or Chicken Broth ensure to use low-sodium
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon Zest fresh is best
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice freshly squeezed
  • 1 cup Parmesan Cheese freshly grated for best results
  • 1/4 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes optional for heat
For Seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon Salt to taste
  • 1 teaspoon Pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Herbs (Parsley or Basil) based on preference

Equipment

  • Large skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Toast the Orzo: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the dry orzo, stirring frequently until it turns lightly golden and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
  2. Sauté the Garlic: Toss in finely minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, stirring continually to avoid burning.
  3. Add Broth and Simmer: Pour in 4 cups of broth, seasoning with salt and pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for a couple of minutes until bubbling.
  4. Incorporate Broccoli: Add the broccoli florets, reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and cook for 8-10 minutes until bright green and tender.
  5. Stir in White Beans: Gently fold in the drained white beans and cook for 2-3 minutes until warmed through.
  6. Add Lemon and Parmesan: Remove from heat and stir in 1 tablespoon of olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, and Parmesan cheese until creamy.
  7. Adjust and Garnish: Taste and adjust seasoning, stir in fresh herbs and red pepper flakes if using. Serve warm with extra Parmesan and lemon wedges.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 15gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 10gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 90mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish comes together quickly. Pair it with a crisp green salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.

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