Description
Colorful, cozy, and kid-friendly! This easy veggie orzo is a quick, nutritious meal packed with tender veggies and soft pasta.
Ingredients
Vegetables:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup broccoli, chopped
- 1 cup carrots, finely shredded
Other Ingredients:
- 2 tsp garlic, minced
- 1 cup orzo
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 oz cream cheese
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Chop Vegetables: Chop broccoli florets into small pieces and shred the carrots finely.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a medium pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped broccoli, shredded carrots, and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften slightly and become fragrant.
- Cook Orzo: Add the orzo and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add Cheeses: Once the orzo is tender and broth is mostly absorbed, stir in the cream cheese and parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
- Serve: Allow the Veggie Orzo to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy as is or pair with grilled chicken or fish for added protein.
Notes
- Chop veggies small: For the most toddler-friendly texture, finely chop or shred vegetables.
- Make it a full meal: Add protein like chicken, turkey, beans, or extra cheese.
- Dairy-free? Use plant-based cream cheese and skip parmesan or use nutritional yeast.
- Gluten-free? Substitute orzo with certified gluten-free alternative.
- Storage: Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days or can be frozen.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 406 kcal
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 921mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 24mg
