Delicious Mushroom Orzo Pilaf Recipe: Quick & Healthy!
Hey everyone! If you’re looking for a side dish that’s flavorful, nutritious, and easy to prepare, this Mushroom Orzo Pilaf is a must-try.
With tender orzo pasta, savory mushrooms, and aromatic herbs, this dish is the perfect complement to any meal. Let’s get started!
What’s in This Mushroom Orzo Pilaf?
This pilaf features orzo pasta cooked to perfection with sautéed mushrooms, garlic, and onions, all infused with a touch of broth for extra depth of flavor. It’s a quick and healthy recipe that works as a side or even a light main dish.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious orzo pilaf:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 ½ cups mushrooms (sliced; cremini or button work well)
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh thyme for extra flavor)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
How to Make Mushroom Orzo Pilaf
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened about 2-3 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.
Step 2: Cook the Mushrooms
Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they release their juices and become golden brown.
Step 3: Toast the Orzo
Stir in the orzo pasta and let it cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing it to lightly toast for extra flavor.
Step 4: Simmer with Broth
Pour in the broth, add thyme, salt, and pepper, and bring to a gentle simmer. Cover and let cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo absorbs the liquid and becomes tender.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Remove from heat and let the pilaf sit for a couple of minutes. Fluff with a fork, stir in Parmesan cheese if using, and garnish with fresh parsley.
Cooking Time
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 15 minutes
- Total time: About 25 minutes
Serving
This recipe makes 4 servings, perfect as a side dish or light meal.
Calories & Macros (Per Serving, Based on 4 Servings)
- Calories: ~250 kcal
- Protein: ~7g
- Fat: ~8g
- Carbohydrates: ~35g
Tips and Tricks
- Use different mushrooms like shiitake or portobello for a deeper flavor.
- Make it creamy by stirring in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt.
- Add protein by tossing in shredded chicken or chickpeas.
- Pair with mains like grilled chicken, steak, or roasted vegetables.
Why I Love This Recipe
This Mushroom Orzo Pilaf is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s easy to make and pairs well with almost anything. The combination of mushrooms, garlic, and thyme makes every bite rich and satisfying.
Give this recipe a try and let me know how it turns out! 😊
