Creamy Veggie Orzo: The Quick, Healthy Family Favorite

Creamy Veggie Orzo is a quick, nutritious dish that your family will love.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 10

Total Time 20

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 300

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Base

2 tablespoons Olive Oil Swap with butter for a different flavor.
1 cup Orzo Use small pasta shapes for gluten-free variations.

For the Vegetables

1 cup Broccoli Finely chop for better integration.
1 cup Carrots Can be replaced with zucchini or sweet corn.
2 cloves Garlic Fresh minced garlic is ideal.

For the Creaminess

4 ounces Cream Cheese Consider plant-based options for dairy-free.
½ cup Parmesan Cheese Substitute with mozzarella or cheddar for dairy-free.

For the Broth

3 cups Chicken Broth Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.

Equipment

medium-sized pot

Method

Step-by-Step Instructions

Begin by finely chopping the broccoli and shredding the carrots. Set aside your prepared veggies in a bowl.
In a medium-sized pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add in the chopped broccoli, shredded carrots, and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes.
Pour in 1 cup of orzo and 3 cups of chicken broth. Stir well and bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and cook for about 10-15 minutes until the orzo is tender.
Reduce the heat to low and stir in 4 ounces of cream cheese and ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until both cheeses melt completely.
Allow the Creamy Veggie Orzo to cool slightly before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 10gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 6gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 4gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 50mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Chop vegetables small for a toddler-friendly texture. Consider adding cooked chicken or beans for added protein.

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