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The Zesty Lemon Garlic Orzo Bowl is a vibrant and flavorful dish that embodies the essence of fresh, wholesome ingredients. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re looking to whip up a delightful weeknight dinner or serve something special at a casual gathering. With its bright flavors and colorful presentation, this orzo bowl not only satisfies the palate but also appeals to the eyes, making it a dish that is sure to impress.

Lemon Garlic Orzo Bowl

Discover the vibrant flavors of the Zesty Lemon Garlic Orzo Bowl, a quick and nutritious meal that's perfect for any occasion. This easy recipe combines orzo pasta, fresh vegetables, and zesty lemon to create a delicious dish ready in under 30 minutes. With a boost of vitamins from spinach and antioxidants from garlic, this bowl delights both the palate and the eyes. Customizable with your choice of proteins or seasonal veggies, it's a versatile option for everyone!
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Ingredients
  

1 cup orzo pasta

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

4 cloves garlic, minced

Zest of 1 large lemon

Juice of 1 large lemon

2 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup baby spinach, packed

1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Salt and pepper to taste

Optional: Red pepper flakes for an extra kick

Instructions
 

Cook the Orzo: In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a rolling boil over medium heat. Add the orzo pasta, stirring gently to prevent sticking. Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and cook for approximately 8-10 minutes, or until the orzo is tender but still has a slight bite (al dente). Once cooked, drain any excess liquid and set the orzo aside.

    Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to release the flavors. Keep a close eye on the garlic to avoid burning; it should become fragrant but remain pale.

      Add Tomatoes: Incorporate the halved cherry tomatoes into the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes begin to soften and release their juices.

        Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked orzo to the skillet, followed by the lemon zest and lemon juice. Gently stir to blend all the ingredients together, ensuring the orzo is well coated with the aromatic garlic and lemon mixture.

          Add Spinach: Gently fold in the baby spinach, cooking just until it wilts, which should take about 2-3 minutes. The residual heat from the skillet will help in softening the spinach without overcooking it.

            Finish with Cheese & Season: Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle in the crumbled feta cheese and chopped parsley. Season to taste with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes if you prefer a little heat. Toss everything together gently to ensure an even distribution of flavors.

              Serve: Spoon the orzo mixture into bowls, presenting it as a vibrant and colorful dish. For an extra touch, garnish with a few extra parsley leaves. Enjoy your delicious lemon garlic orzo bowl!

                Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

                  Presentation Tips: Serve with lemon wedges on the side for an additional burst of freshness and color. A light drizzle of good-quality olive oil over the top just before serving enhances the dish’s richness.