Lemon Parmesan Orzo in Instant Pot

User Reviews

4.9

102 reviews
Excellent
  • Prep Time

    5 mins

  • Cook Time

    20 mins

  • Total Time

    25 mins

  • Servings

    6

  • Calories

    264 kcal

  • Course

    Side Dish

  • Cuisine

    Italian

Lemon Parmesan Orzo in Instant Pot

Lemon Parmesan Orzo cooked in an Instant Pot starts with toasting the pasta, infusing it with a slight nuttiness. Combined with garlic, broth, parmesan, parsley, and lemon juice, this orzo offers a creamy, bright flavor balance. Cherry tomatoes add a fresh, juicy contrast. The recipe yields a tender, flavorful side or main that comes together with minimal hands-on timing.

Description

Lemon Parmesan Orzo in an Instant Pot blends orzo pasta toasted briefly in butter or olive oil with garlic to build flavor before pressure cooking it in broth. This method creates a creamy texture as the orzo absorbs the liquid, producing a tender yet distinctive pasta. Stirring in parmesan delivers rich, savory notes while parsley and lemon juice contribute brightness and freshness. Optional cherry tomatoes add slight acidity and juiciness to the dish.

This versatile orzo can serve as a side dish to poultry or fish or function as a light vegetarian main. The citrus and cheese combination provides a delicate balance ideal for spring or summer meals. It requires a few fresh ingredients but little active cooking time, thanks to the Instant Pot’s pressure function.

Salt and pepper adjustments at the end let you tailor the taste. Letting the orzo rest briefly after mixing in cheese and lemon helps flavors meld. The recipe calls for quick pressure cooking, ensuring the pasta does not become mushy.

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Ingredients

Servings
  • 2 tablespoon butter or Olive Oil
  • 1 1/2 cup orzo
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 3/4 cups broth or Water
  • 1 cup parmesan grated
  • 3 tablespoon parsley chopped
  • 1 cup cherry tomato washed and sliced in half (optional
  • 2 tablespoon lemon juice
  • salt to taste
  • black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Start the instant pot in Sauté mode and let it heat. Add butter and orzo pasta. Saute for about 3 minutes until some orzo pieces turn brown. Keep stirring continuously, else it can burn.
  2. Add garlic and stir it in with the toasted orzo.
  3. Add broth and stir well. Press cancel and close the lid with the vent in the sealing position. 
  4. Pressure cook at high pressure for 3 minutes. When the cooking time is done, quick release the pressure manually. 
  5. Open the instant pot, then add parmesan, parsley, cherry tomatoes and lemon juice. Stir well and let it sit for 2-3 mins.
  6. Add salt and pepper to taste. 
  7. Lemon Parmesan Orzo is ready to be enjoyed.

Nutrition Information

Show Details
Calories 264kcal (13%) Carbohydrates 32g (11%) Protein 13g (26%) Fat 9g (14%) Saturated Fat 5g (25%) Cholesterol 22mg (7%) Sodium 340mg (14%) Potassium 263mg (6%) Fiber 1g (4%) Sugar 2g (4%) Vitamin A 530IU (11%) Vitamin C 11mg (12%) Calcium 218mg (22%) Iron 1mg (6%)

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 6Serving

Amount Per Serving

Calories 264 kcal

% Daily Value*

Calories 264kcal 13%
Carbohydrates 32g 11%
Protein 13g 26%
Fat 9g 14%
Saturated Fat 5g 25%
Cholesterol 22mg 7%
Sodium 340mg 14%
Potassium 263mg 6%
Fiber 1g 4%
Sugar 2g 4%
Vitamin A 530IU 11%
Vitamin C 11mg 12%
Calcium 218mg 22%
Iron 1mg 6%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.

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Overall Rating

4.9

102 reviews
Excellent

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