Mendi's Top Choice for Orzo

A recipe is a quick and flavorful way to enjoy orzo, perfect for a cozy weeknight meal. With simple ingredients and easy steps, it’s sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen.

Helpful Kitchen Tips

Rinse the orzo before cooking to remove excess starch.
Stir frequently while cooking to prevent sticking.
Use broth instead of water for extra flavor.

Ingredients 0/9

¾ cup orzo pasta 1 ½ tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil 1 (8 ounce) package sliced fresh mushrooms ¼ teaspoon onion powder salt and pepper to taste 1 ½ tablespoons melted butter ½ cup frozen corn kernels, thawed ½ cup frozen green peas, thawed 2 tablespoons chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley

Why This Recipe Is So Tasty

Quick to make and packed with flavor. The orzo cooks to a perfect texture, making it a great base for many ingredients. It’s a comforting meal that feels special without much effort.

Directions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Toss in the orzo and cook it until it’s just tender, about 6 to 7 minutes, then drain and set it aside. While the pasta is cooking, heat some olive oil in a big skillet over medium-high heat. Add the mushrooms, sprinkle with a bit of onion powder, salt, and pepper, and cook them until they’re soft and have released their moisture—about 5 minutes. Next, stir in the butter, corn, peas, parsley, and the cooked orzo. Give everything a good mix, season with salt and pepper to your liking, and serve right away.

people cooked this recipe

By Ryan Parker

Ryan shares simple recipes made for everyday cooking and easy family meals.

Best Pairings For This Dish

Serve warm as a side dish with grilled vegetables or roasted chicken. It also pairs well with a fresh salad and a squeeze of lemon to brighten the flavors.

How To Store Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use dried mushrooms instead of fresh for this recipe?

Fresh mushrooms are best for texture and flavor, but you can use rehydrated dried mushrooms if needed. Just drain them well before cooking.

How can I make this dish vegan?

Replace the butter with a plant-based alternative and use olive oil instead of butter for cooking.

Is it necessary to thaw the frozen corn and peas before adding them?

Yes, thawing helps them cook evenly and blend better with the other ingredients.

Can I prepare this recipe in advance?

It’s best served fresh, but you can refrigerate leftovers for up to 2 days and reheat gently.

What can I substitute for orzo pasta if I don’t have any?

You can use other small pasta shapes like acini di pepe or small shells as a substitute.

Should I rinse the orzo after cooking?

No need to rinse; draining is enough to keep the starches that help the dish stick together.

How do I know when the mushrooms are cooked properly?

They should be soft and have released most of their moisture, usually after about 5 minutes.

Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Yes, feel free to add veggies like bell peppers or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.