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Before we dive into the cooking process, it’s essential to understand orzo, the star of our dish. Orzo is a type of pasta that is shaped like a grain of rice, making it a unique addition to various dishes. Its origins can be traced back to Italy, where it is often used in soups, salads, or as a side dish. The name “orzo” means “barley” in Italian, which is fitting given its resemblance to this grain.

Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Orzo

Discover the delightful Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Orzo, a perfect blend of rich flavors and creamy textures that will warm your heart. This simple yet indulgent dish combines orzo pasta, heavy cream, and the tangy sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes for a satisfying meal. Ideal for quick weeknight dinners or an impressive side for gatherings, this easy recipe is perfect for cooks of all skill levels. Dive into a world of comforting flavors with this exquisite orzo dish!

Ingredients
  

1 cup orzo pasta

2 cups vegetable broth

1 cup heavy cream

1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (oil-packed preferred)

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 small onion, finely diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon dried basil

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions
 

Cook the Orzo: In a large pot, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

    Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

      Create the Sauce: Lower the heat to medium-low and gradually stir the heavy cream into the pot. Cook for about 2 minutes until slightly thickened.

        Add Flavorings: Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, grated Parmesan cheese, dried basil, and red pepper flakes. Mix well until the cheese is melted and everything is combined. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

          Combine and Serve: Add the cooked orzo back into the pot and stir to coat the pasta in the creamy sauce. Let everything simmer together for a minute or two to heat through.

            Garnish: Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves and an additional sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your delicious and comforting creamy sun-dried tomato orzo!

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 25 minutes | 4 servings