Lemon Orzo Pasta with Zucchini

In the realm of culinary creations, few dishes capture the essence of summer like Lemon Zest Orzo Delight with Zucchini. This vibrant recipe is not only a visual feast but also a celebration of fresh flavors that come together effortlessly. The bright notes of lemon paired with the tender crunch of zucchini create a delightful combination that is both invigorating and satisfying. As the demand for easy, healthy recipes continues to grow in today’s fast-paced cooking landscape, this dish stands out as a perfect choice for any meal, whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a delightful addition to a gathering with friends.

Brighten up your meals with Lemon Zest Orzo Delight with Zucchini! This fresh and flavorful dish combines the zestiness of lemon and the mild crunch of zucchini for a satisfying and nutritious experience. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or gatherings, this recipe prioritizes wholesome, fresh ingredients, making it ideal for health-conscious food lovers. Easy to prepare, it also allows for seasonal twists, ensuring delicious versatility year-round. Get ready to impress your taste buds!

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Ingredients

1 cup orzo pasta

2 medium zucchinis, diced

3 tablespoons olive oil

1 garlic clove, minced

Zest of 1 large lemon

Juice of 1 large lemon

½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Salt and black pepper, to taste

¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for a vegan option)

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Orzo: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of the cooking water.

Sauté the Zucchini: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using), and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Add Zucchini: Introduce the diced zucchini to the skillet. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes or until the zucchini is tender and slightly golden. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Combine Ingredients: Reduce the heat to low. Add the cooked orzo to the skillet with zucchini along with the lemon zest, lemon juice, and a splash of the reserved pasta water. Toss everything together gently, allowing the flavors to meld. If the mixture seems dry, add a bit more reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

Finishing Touches: Remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast). Adjust seasoning if needed.

Serve: Plate the lemon orzo with zucchini, garnishing with fresh basil leaves. Serve immediately with extra lemon wedges on the side for an added burst of freshness.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 servings