Nut-free option, Soy-free option
This dish is made in one pot and is ready in just 30 minutes. It’s creamy, garlicky and buttery. We love topping it with our Parmesan-Crusted Tofu and pairing it with Easy Steamed Broccoli, making it a full meal.
Creamy Garlic Orzo is a delectable and comforting dish that combines the rich and creamy texture of orzo pasta with the aromatic flavors of garlic and herbs. This recipe offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it a versatile option for both casual weeknight dinners and special occasions.
The dish starts with sautéing diced onions and orzo in vegan butter, which not only enhances the flavors but also gives the orzo a delightful golden hue. The addition of minced garlic adds a burst of aromatic intensity to the dish, infusing each bite with a wonderful depth of flavor.
What truly sets this recipe apart is the creamy base created by combining plain, unsweetened rice milk with vegetable broth. This combination provides a luscious and velvety texture to the orzo, transforming it into a comforting and satisfying meal. Nutritional yeast contributes a subtle cheesy and nutty essence, while dried parsley, garlic powder, and a touch of fresh lime juice bring a delightful balance of herbaceousness and brightness.
For those looking to elevate the dish further, slices of Parmesan-Crusted Tofu can be added as a topping, introducing a contrast of crispy textures against the creamy orzo. This dish showcases how plant-based ingredients can come together to create a dish that’s not only delicious but also wholesome.
Creamy Garlic Orzo is a testament to the creativity and versatility of vegan cooking. It proves that even without traditional dairy ingredients, a dish can still be luxuriously creamy and full of flavor. Whether enjoyed as a main course or a side dish, this recipe is a wonderful addition to any vegan or plant-based culinary repertoire. Its simple yet sophisticated flavors are bound to leave a lasting impression on your taste buds and those of your guests.
PREP TIME: 5 minutes
COOK TIME: 25 minutes
YIELD: 6 to 8 servings
INGREDIENTS:
- 4 tbsp (56 g) vegan butter, divided (nut-free and/or soy-free if needed)
- ½ medium-sized onion, diced (about ½ cup [80 g])
- 1 (16-oz [453-g]) package orzo
- 3 cloves garlic, peeled and minced, or 1 tbsp (9 g) jarred minced garlic
- 3½ cups (840 ml) vegetable broth
- 1 cup (240 ml) plain, unsweetened rice milk
- ½ cup (40 g) nutritional yeast
- 1 tsp salt
- ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
- ½ tsp dried parsley
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp fresh lime juice
FOR SERVING (OPTIONAL)
- Parmesan-Crusted Tofu, sliced (omit for nut-free and/or soy-free)
- Dried or chopped fresh parsley
INSTRUCTIONS:
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons (28 g) of the butter over medium-low heat.
- Stir in the diced onion and orzo. Sauté the mixture, stirring often, until the orzo is lightly browned, which takes about 7 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds to 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and rice milk. Increase the heat to high to bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, maintaining a gentle simmer.
- Cook the mixture, stirring occasionally, for 13 to 15 minutes. This allows the orzo to fully cook and absorb most of the liquid. Remove the skillet from the heat.
- Incorporate the remaining 2 tablespoons (28 g) of vegan butter and the nutritional yeast into the mixture. Stir until the butter is melted and all ingredients are well combined.
- Season the orzo with salt, freshly ground black pepper, dried parsley, garlic powder, and fresh lime juice. Mix thoroughly to evenly distribute the flavors.
- Serve the creamy orzo warm. If desired, top it with slices of Parmesan-Crusted Tofu for added texture and flavor. You can also garnish with dried or chopped fresh parsley to enhance the presentation and taste.
