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This easy veggie orzo is a quick weeknight rescue when I need something comforting and colorful on the table fast Kids love the tender pasta and the cheese brings everything together in a creamy bowl even picky eaters go for seconds in our house
Since making this for my toddlers I have found it is just as good for grownup lunches and a hit at friendly get-togethers Everyone loves the colorful look and mild flavor
Ingredients
- Olive oil: brings out the flavor of sautéed veggies and keeps things tender choose extra virgin for best taste
- Broccoli: adds color and nutrients fresh or high-quality frozen florets both work well make sure pieces are small for even cooking
- Carrots: provide natural sweetness and sneak in extra vitamins choose firm carrots for easy shredding
- Garlic: lends savory aroma and wakes up the flavor choose plump firm cloves for best results
- Orzo: creates the creamy satisfying base Italian pasta in the shape of large rice grains look for a brand with a short ingredient list
- Chicken broth: gently cooks the orzo and adds rich depth use a low sodium variety or swap for vegetable broth
- Cream cheese: gives the pasta its signature creamy texture use full fat for best results and a clean label if possible
- Parmesan cheese: brings salty floral flavor and thickens the sauce freshly grated is ideal for easy melting
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the vegetables:
- Finely chop broccoli florets and shred the carrots using a box grater or food processor Aim for small pieces so they soften quickly and blend with the pasta
- Sauté the vegetables:
- Heat olive oil in a medium pot over medium heat Add the chopped broccoli shredded carrots and minced garlic Stir often and cook for about five minutes until the vegetables begin to soften and you smell the garlic
- Cook the orzo:
- Add dry orzo and the entire two cups of chicken broth Stir well Bring the mixture to a gentle boil then reduce the heat to medium high Let simmer for ten to fifteen minutes stirring occasionally so the orzo does not stick to the bottom The orzo should soak up most of the broth by the time it is finished
- Make it creamy:
- When the orzo is plump and almost all the liquid is absorbed add in the cream cheese and parmesan Stir well until both cheeses are fully melted and the sauce looks smooth and glossy
- Serve:
- Let the veggie orzo cool slightly so it thickens and the flavors settle Serve as is or use it as a base for grilled chicken or white fish for added protein
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Broccoli is my favorite part for the pop of green and its mild flavor sometimes my daughter and I will pick out just the broccoli to nibble as we stir the pot This recipe always reminds me of my son’s second birthday when he surprised us by eating two bowls in a row
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days Or freeze portions for up to two months for easy future meals To reheat add a splash of broth or milk and warm gently on the stove so it stays creamy
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap orzo for tiny gluten free pasta or quinoa and it still tastes great For dairy free needs try plant based cream cheese and nutritional yeast instead of parmesan Vegetable broth works just as well if you want a meatless dish
Serving Suggestions
Serve this orzo as a main for kids with extra cheese on top It also pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or white beans for a fuller meal Sometimes I scoop it into thermoses for a warm packable school lunch
Why This Dish Works
The magic of this recipe lies in cooking everything together so the pasta soaks up flavor from the broth and veggies The quick sauté brings out the natural sweetness in the carrots and softens the broccoli until it nearly melts into the creamy sauce It is a cozy colorful way to make vegetables appealing
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I keep the orzo creamy after reheating?
Add a splash of broth or milk before reheating and stir well. This helps restore the original creamy texture and prevents the pasta from drying out.
- → Can I substitute other vegetables?
Yes, try peas, bell peppers, or zucchini. Simply chop them small for even cooking and a smooth texture that blends seamlessly into the orzo.
- → How can I add more protein?
Stir in cooked chicken, ground turkey, beans, or extra cheese towards the end. These additions make the meal heartier and more filling.
- → Is there a dairy-free option?
Use plant-based cream cheese and either skip the parmesan or replace it with nutritional yeast. This way, the dish stays creamy and flavorful without dairy.
- → What’s the best way to serve to toddlers?
Chop or shred vegetables finely for a gentle texture, let the orzo cool slightly, and serve as is or with extra protein for a balanced meal.