Ingredients
To create this delightful dish, you’ll need a handful of ingredients that might already be in your pantry. Here’s what you need:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
If you’re looking for substitutions, you can use whole wheat orzo for a healthier twist or swap the heavy cream with a plant-based alternative to make it vegan-friendly.
Instructions
Let’s dive into the cooking process, where simplicity meets deliciousness in every step:
- Begin by cooking the orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet and cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in the cooked orzo, followed by the heavy cream, and let everything simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning to your preference.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International