Lemon Herb Orzo Pasta Side Dish
Light, zesty, and full of fresh flavor, this Lemon Herb Orzo Pasta is the perfect side dish for any meal. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, seafood, or roasted vegetables and comes together in just 20 minutes. Simple, elegant, and refreshing—this is a side you’ll keep on repeat.
Ingredients List
1 cup orzo pasta
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon butter
1 garlic clove, minced
1 teaspoon lemon zest
2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill (or other herbs like basil or chives)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional: grated Parmesan or crumbled feta for garnish
Instructions
Cook orzo according to package directions in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a pan, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 30–60 seconds until fragrant.
Add the cooked orzo to the pan and toss gently.
Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, parsley, and dill.
Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Serve warm or at room temperature, topped with cheese if using.
Cooking Time
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings
Makes 3–4 side servings
Nutritional Information (approx. per serving)
Calories: 210
Carbs: 28g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 9g
Storage Instructions
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days
Best served fresh, but can be reheated gently or enjoyed cold as a salad
Add a drizzle of olive oil or splash of lemon juice to refresh before serving
Pairings/Suggestions
Pairs well with grilled chicken, salmon, or shrimp
Use as a base for Mediterranean bowls or add roasted veggies
Toss in chickpeas or white beans for a more filling side
Seasonal Relevance
Perfect for spring and summer with fresh herbs and citrus
Also great year-round as a light, bright contrast to heavier main dishes
Conclusion
This Lemon Herb Orzo Pasta is an easy, elegant side dish bursting with fresh flavor. Whether served warm or chilled, it’s the perfect complement to just about any main course.
Lemon Herb Orzo Pasta Side Dish
3–4
servings5
minutes15
minutes210
kcalA refreshing orzo pasta side dish with lemon, herbs, and garlic—perfect with grilled meats, seafood, or roasted veggies.
Ingredients
1 cup orzo pasta
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon butter
1 garlic clove, minced
1 teaspoon lemon zest
2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill (or other herbs like basil or chives)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional: grated Parmesan or crumbled feta for garnish
Directions
- Cook orzo according to package directions in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a pan, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 30–60 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the cooked orzo to the pan and toss gently.
- Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, parsley, and dill.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Serve warm or at room temperature, topped with cheese if using.
Recipe Video
Notes
- Don’t overcook the orzo—it should stay firm
Try different herb combinations to match your main dish
Use vegetable broth instead of water for extra flavor when cooking orzo
FAQs
Q1: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes—it holds up well and can be served cold or at room temperature.
Q2: Can I use dried herbs?
Fresh herbs are best, but you can substitute 1 teaspoon dried per tablespoon fresh.
Q3: Is it good for meal prep?
Absolutely—just refresh with a bit of lemon juice or olive oil before serving.
