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Creamy Orzo with Zucchini

Creamy Orzo with Zucchini: A Quick Comfort Meal Delight

Creamy Orzo with Zucchini is a quick, comforting meal that sneaks in veggies and delivers flavor in just 15 minutes.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 1.5 cups small zucchini shredded; can substitute with yellow squash
  • 1.5 cups orzo no substitutions necessary
For the Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons butter can use olive oil for a dairy-free option
  • 2 tablespoons flour substitute with cornstarch for gluten-free
  • 1.5 cups milk non-dairy milk can be used
  • 0.5 teaspoon dried basil fresh basil can be substituted to taste
  • 0.25 teaspoon paprika optional for flavor enhancement
  • salt and pepper to taste
For the Finish
  • 0.33 cups Parmesan cheese substitute with vegan cheese for plant-based option

Equipment

  • Medium pot
  • large skillet
  • Whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by filling a medium pot with salted water and bring it to a rapid boil. Once boiling, add 1 ½ cups of orzo and cook according to package directions, about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in 2 tablespoons of flour for about 2 minutes until golden.
  3. Gradually pour in 1 ½ cups of milk, whisking continuously until it thickens to a creamy consistency. Stir in ½ teaspoon of dried basil, ¼ teaspoon of paprika, and season with salt and pepper.
  4. Add ⅓ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, letting it melt, then combine with the drained orzo and shredded zucchini, mixing well.
  5. Heat for an additional 2-3 minutes, then adjust seasoning if needed and serve warm.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 12gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 280mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

For smoother texture, consider peeling zucchini before shredding. Add a splash of milk when reheating to restore creaminess.

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