Simple Lemon Orzo
A light and refreshing side dish, this whole wheat orzo is tossed with zesty lemon, fresh parsley, and a hint of garlic. It's the perfect heart-healthy accompaniment to grilled chicken or fish.
For 4 servings
Cook the orzo.
- Bring 6 cups of water to a rolling boil in a medium pot.
- Add 1 pinch of salt and the whole wheat orzo.
- Cook according to package directions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
- Drain the orzo well in a colander.
TIPRinse the orzo briefly under cool water to stop the cooking and prevent clumping.Prepare the lemon dressing.
In a large bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, the remaining pinch of salt, and black pepper.
TIPFor the brightest flavor, always use freshly squeezed lemon juice instead of bottled.Toss everything together.
- Add the drained, cooked orzo to the bowl with the lemon dressing.
- Add the chopped fresh parsley.
- Toss gently until the orzo is evenly coated.
Serve and enjoy.
Serve the lemon orzo immediately while warm, or let it cool to room temperature. It's also delicious served chilled.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Don't overcook the orzo; it should be al dente for the best texture.
- 2Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the brightest flavor, not bottled.
- 3For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of lemon zest along with the juice.
- 4This dish can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Adapt it for your goals.
Gluten free
Use a certified gluten-free orzo or another small gluten-free pasta shape like quinoa or millet.
high proteinHigh protein
Stir in 1/2 cup of cooked chickpeas or white beans for a plant-based protein boost.
quickQuick
This recipe is already fast! To save more time, use pre-minced garlic and pre-chopped parsley from the store.
kid friendlyKid friendly
Omit the raw garlic for a milder flavor. You can also stir in some finely grated parmesan cheese if desired.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Whole Grain Goodness
Whole wheat orzo is a good source of dietary fiber, which supports digestive health and helps you feel full longer.
Heart-Healthy Fats
Extra virgin olive oil provides monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health and can help lower bad cholesterol.
Rich in Vitamin C
Fresh lemon juice is an excellent source of Vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that supports the immune system.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, this version is quite healthy. It uses whole wheat orzo for fiber, heart-healthy olive oil, and keeps the sodium very low. It's a great source of complex carbohydrates for sustained energy.