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Veggie Orzo

Creamy Veggie Orzo: A Comforting Dish for Picky Eaters

Creamy Veggie Orzo is a nutritious and customizable dish that pleases picky eaters while being gluten-free and easily adaptable.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Avocado oil can be used as a substitute.
  • 1 cup Orzo For gluten-free, use small gluten-free pasta shapes.
  • 4 cups Chicken Broth Can be substituted with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
For the Vegetables
  • 1 cup Broccoli Can be replaced with peas or chopped spinach.
  • 1 cup Carrots Shred or finely chop for best texture.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Fresh minced garlic is best.
For the Creamy Factor
  • 4 ounces Cream Cheese Use plant-based cream cheese for a dairy-free option.
  • ½ cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Substitute with mozzarella or nutritional yeast for dairy-free.

Equipment

  • Medium Pot
  • cutting board
  • Sharp Knife

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by chopping broccoli into small florets and finely shredding the carrots; set aside.
  2. In a medium pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped broccoli, shredded carrots, and minced garlic, and sauté for about 5 minutes.
  3. Add 1 cup of orzo and 4 cups of chicken broth. Increase heat to bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
  4. Once the orzo is cooked, add in 4 ounces of cream cheese and ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese and stir continuously for 3-4 minutes.
  5. Allow the Creamy Veggie Orzo to cool slightly before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 12gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 35mgSodium: 550mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Can freeze for up to 2 months.

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