Creamy Orzo with Garlic, Parmesan, and Blistered Tomatoes
User Reviews
4.9
-
Prep Time
5 mins
-
Cook Time
20 mins
-
Total Time
25 mins
-
Servings
4
-
Calories
369 kcal
-
Course
Main Course, Dinner
-
Cuisine
Mediterranean
Creamy Orzo with Garlic, Parmesan, and Blistered Tomatoes
Description
Creamy Orzo with Garlic, Parmesan, and Blistered Tomatoes uses whole cherry tomatoes gently cooked in olive oil with garlic until softened and bursting, releasing their juices. This flavorful mixture simmers to create a rich base in which the orzo cooks, absorbing the tomato broth. Once tender, a mixture of Greek yogurt tempered with some of the warm liquid is folded in, providing a smooth, tangy creaminess that balances the savory elements. Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley add nutty complexity and a fresh green note. The dish combines soft pasta, silky sauce, and juicy tomatoes for a satisfying texture and taste.
The flavor is bright from the blistered tomatoes, mellowed by the richness of the cheese and yogurt. Garlic adds aromatic depth without overwhelming. Cooking the orzo directly in the tomato broth concentrates the tomato flavor and results in a creamy consistency without needing additional cream or butter.
This orzo works well as a side for roasted or grilled meats and vegetables or as a light vegetarian main. It can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. The fresh parsley adds brightness to balance the creamy texture.
Whisking the yogurt with warm tomato broth before combining helps prevent curdling. This step is important for maintaining a smooth sauce. The orzo continues to absorb flavor as it rests, so serving shortly after preparation keeps the texture ideal.
Ingredients
- 5 cups cherry tomato about 1.5 pounds
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 4 garlic minced, cloves
- kosher salt
- black pepper ground
- 2 cups orzo dry
- water 3-4 cups, or broth
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese or more to your liking, grated, or pecorino Romano
- 1 cup parsley chopped, fresh
Instructions
- Blister the cherry tomatoes. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the tomatoes (whole) and garlic and season with a big pinch of kosher salt and black pepper. Stir to combine, then cover the pan until the tomatoes are softened, about 5 to 8 minutes.
- Stew the tomatoes. Use a wooden spoon to mash the softened tomatoes. Let them cook, uncovered, until they have softened and let out a lot of juice, about 3 to 5 minutes.
- Cook the orzo. Add the orzo and cover with water or broth by about 1 inch. Add a big pinch of salt and pepper and stir to combine. Let the pasta and tomatoes cook over medium heat (uncovered), stirring occasionally to prevent it from scorching at the bottom.
- Temper the yogurt. Before the orzo has absorbed the liquid, spoon some of the warm tomato-ey broth into a large measuring cup. Add the yogurt and whisk to combine, bringing the yogurt to room temperature.
- Combine. When the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the juice, about 10 minutes, turn the heat off. Add the warmed yogurt and stir to combine.
- Finish and serve. Stir in the cheese and fresh parsley. Taste and adjust the seasoning to your liking and serve.
Notes
- Whisk Greek yogurt with warm broth before adding to orzo to avoid curdling.
- Use freshly minced garlic to enhance aroma and flavor.
- This dish can be served warm or at room temperature as a side or light main.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 369 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 369kcal | 18% |
| Carbohydrates | 53.4g | 18% |
| Protein | 17.1g | 34% |
| Fat | 10g | 15% |
| Saturated Fat | 2.2g | 11% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.2g | 7% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 5.8g | 29% |
| Trans Fat | 0.003g | 0% |
| Cholesterol | 6.8mg | 2% |
| Sodium | 151mg | 6% |
| Potassium | 702.9mg | 15% |
| Fiber | 3.7g | 15% |
| Sugar | 8g | 16% |
| Vitamin A | 2225.4IU | 45% |
| Vitamin C | 63.4mg | 70% |
| Calcium | 188mg | 19% |
| Iron | 3.1mg | 17% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
4.9
You'll Also Love
