Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This One Pan Creamy Lemon Zucchini Orzo is a perfect, quick meal for any busy weeknight. In just 15 minutes, you can whip up a vibrant and flavorful dish that’s both creamy and fresh. The combination of zucchini, onions, and orzo pasta with a splash of lemon juice and Parmesan makes this dish an irresistible comfort food. Plus, it’s a one-pan recipe, meaning minimal cleanup. It’s simple, creamy, and bursting with flavor!
Ingredients
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2 large zucchinis, thinly sliced
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2 tablespoons butter
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1/2 yellow onion, diced
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1 cup uncooked orzo
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2 cups chicken broth
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1/2 cup Parmesan
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Optional: 1 tablespoon fresh minced garlic (or garlic powder)
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Seasonings: garlic powder, salt, and pepper
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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Prepare the veggies: Thinly slice the zucchini and dice the onion.
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Sauté the zucchini: In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Sauté the zucchini with garlic powder, salt, and pepper until tender. Transfer the zucchini out of the pan and set aside.
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Cook the onions: In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of butter and sauté the diced onions for 2-3 minutes on medium heat.
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Add the orzo: Stir in the orzo, followed by the chicken broth. Mix well and cover the skillet. Let it simmer, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is almost cooked through.
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Finish the dish: Squeeze fresh lemon juice into the pan, then add the cooked zucchini back. Stir in garlic powder and Parmesan until the orzo is fully cooked and creamy.
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Serve: Enjoy your delicious one-pan creamy lemon zucchini orzo!
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 3
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Prep Time: 5 minutes
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Cook Time: 15 minutes
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Total Time: 20 minutes
Variations
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Vegan Option: Use plant-based butter and skip the Parmesan or use a vegan alternative.
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Add Protein: Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein-packed variation.
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Herbs: Fresh basil or thyme can be added for a burst of herbaceous flavor.
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Gluten-Free: Swap the orzo with gluten-free pasta or rice for a gluten-free version.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
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Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a little bit of water or chicken broth to restore the creaminess.
FAQs
Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?
Yes, vegetable broth is a great substitute to make this dish vegetarian.
How do I make the orzo creamier?
You can add extra Parmesan or a splash of cream for a richer, creamier texture.
Can I use frozen zucchini?
Fresh zucchini works best for this dish, but frozen zucchini can also be used. Just ensure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before cooking.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dish in advance and store it in the fridge. Reheat with a splash of broth or water to keep it creamy.
What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?
You can use any other cheese like Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a similar taste.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Definitely! You can add mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers to enhance the dish’s flavor and nutrition.
Is there a non-dairy option for this recipe?
Yes, you can use dairy-free butter and plant-based Parmesan to make the recipe dairy-free.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute orzo with other small pasta like ditalini or even rice if preferred.
How can I make the dish spicier?
Add some crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dish for some heat.
How do I keep the zucchini from getting too mushy?
Be sure to sauté the zucchini until it is tender but not overcooked. Add it back at the end to prevent it from becoming too soft.
Conclusion
This One Pan Creamy Lemon Zucchini Orzo is the ideal quick and flavorful meal for busy days. With just a few simple ingredients, it’s packed with vibrant flavors and creamy goodness, making it a perfect addition to your weeknight rotation. Whether you’re looking for a light vegetarian meal or a simple dish to complement your protein, this orzo recipe has you covered. Enjoy!
One Pan Creamy Lemon Zucchini Orzo Recipe
This one-pan creamy lemon zucchini orzo is a quick and easy 15-minute dinner, perfect for Meatless Mondays! With sautéed zucchini, caramelized onions, orzo, and a delicious lemon-Parmesan finish, this dish offers vibrant flavors and creamy texture—all made in one pan!
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 3
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 large zucchinis, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 yellow onion, diced
- 1 cup uncooked orzo
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup parmesan
- 1 tablespoon fresh minced garlic (optional, or garlic powder)
- Seasonings: garlic powder, salt, and pepper
- Fresh lemon juice
Instructions
- Slice zucchini and dice the onion.
- In a skillet, sauté zucchini with garlic powder, salt, and pepper in 1 tablespoon of butter until tender. Set aside.
- In the same pan, sauté onions in another tablespoon of butter until soft, 2-3 minutes.
- Add orzo and chicken broth, stirring well, cover, and simmer until orzo is almost cooked through.
- Stir in fresh lemon juice, return zucchini to the pan, and add garlic powder and parmesan. Stir until the orzo is fully cooked and creamy.
Notes
- This dish is easy to customize with additional seasonings or vegetables.
- For a vegan version, substitute butter with olive oil and use dairy-free cheese.
