Description
Indulge in the delightful flavors of this zesty orzo pasta dish with creamy ricotta. Bursting with lemony goodness and fresh herbs, this Mediterranean-inspired recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Orzo Pasta:
- 1 cup dry orzo pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For the Creamy Ricotta Sauce:
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil or parsley
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- Extra lemon zest and herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Orzo: Cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
- Combine and Serve: Add the cooked orzo to the skillet, tossing to coat. Reduce heat, then stir in ricotta and Parmesan until creamy. Mix in cherry tomatoes and herbs. Cook briefly until warmed through. Serve hot, garnished with extra herbs and lemon zest if desired.
Notes
- For a heartier meal, consider adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or roasted vegetables.
- You can opt for part-skim ricotta for a lighter version of this dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 340mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 11g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
