Look closely at the photo of orzo pilaf above. Do you see how there are some pieces of orzo that are darker in color than others? That, my friends, is the beauty of this dish. The toasted orzo not only makes this pilaf pretty to look at, but also boosts the flavor. And browning the butter before toasting the orzo in it results in a delicious earthy, toasty flavor that adds a lot of depth to this otherwise simple side dish. (Intimidated by brown butter? Don’t worry- if you want to skip browning the butter, that’s fine too!) Best of all- you only need a handful of ingredients, one pot, and 20 minutes total to make this easy orzo pilaf. You’re going to love how versatile and yummy it is!
Ingredients and Substitutions
Butter – use olive oil or a vegan butter sub for a vegan version, or ghee for dairy free (and skip the browning part).Green onions – I really recommend green here, but finely diced yellow, white, or sweet onion would also work.Orzo – parboiled rice can be used instead, or substituted for half the orzo.Lemon zest and juiceChicken broth – vegetable broth or water may also be used.Fresh dill – dried may be used in a pinch, or another herb such as parsley.
How to make orzo pilaf
Recommended Additions to the Pilaf
This orzo pilaf is delicious as is for a simple side dish. But it’s easy to add other ingredients to make it more hearty for a light meal on its own.
Add 1/3 cup slivered almonds or another chopped nut like pecans or walnuts when you add the orzo. They will toast with the orzo and soften as it cooks.Stir in cooked chicken or shrimp.Add a can of drained and rinsed chickpeas or white beans.Sauté some chopped spinach with the green onions, or other delicate veggies like diced zucchini or summer squash.Add in some frozen peas and/or corn after the orzo is cooked and stir in until they are heated through.
What to serve with orzo pilaf
New England Baked HaddockPan Fried Sea BassSalmon PattiesKeftedes (Greek Meatballs)Greek Chicken Bites
Other easy orzo recipes
Shrimp and Orzo SaladOrzo with Mushrooms, Brown Butter, and ThymeMediterranean Chickpea and Orzo SaladSpinach, Orzo, and Meatball SoupManestra (Greek-Style Orzo with Ground Beef)
You may also want to check out this recipe for Greek Spinach and Rice, or Spanakorizo – a similar recipe packed with spinach that uses rice instead of orzo. Did you know commenting and rating recipes is one of the best ways you can support your favorite food bloggers? If you made this recipe or have a question, please click the stars below to comment and Rate this Recipe and/or share photos on social media using the hashtag #bowlofdelicious or tagging @bowlofdelicious!
