Description
This Zesty Orzo Pasta with Creamy Ricotta and Protein-Packed Chickpeas is a vibrant and comforting dish perfect for a quick and nutritious meal. Featuring tender orzo pasta cooked in vegetable broth, sautéed chickpeas, and a luscious ricotta and lemon sauce, it’s a delightful combination of creamy texture and fresh citrus flavors, garnished with fragrant parsley.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta & Broth
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups vegetable broth
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
Dairy & Cheese
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Flavorings & Garnish
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Orzo: In a medium saucepan, bring vegetable broth to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions, about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Onion: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until translucent.
- Add Garlic and Chickpeas: Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Then add the chickpeas and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing them to warm through.
- Create the Creamy Sauce: Reduce heat to low and stir in the ricotta cheese, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Mix until creamy and well combined.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked orzo to the skillet and toss everything together. Add vegetable broth if needed to reach your desired consistency. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes
- You can substitute vegetable broth with chicken broth for a non-vegetarian option.
- For extra heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best zesty flavor.
- Ricotta can be swapped with cottage cheese for a lighter alternative.
- This dish pairs well with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
