Are you looking for a quick and nutritious meal that your kids will actually love? Well, look no further! I’m excited to share my Veggie Orzo recipe with you. This creamy garlic pasta is not only delicious but also packed with veggies, making it one of my go-to easy pasta recipes for busy weeknights. In just 15 minutes, you can whip up a delightful dish that will have your little ones asking for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for 30-minute meals.
- Nutritious and packed with veggies, making it a great choice for Easy Veggie Meals For Kids.
- Versatile enough to pair with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.
- Kid-approved flavor that even picky eaters will enjoy!
- Perfect for dinner ideas for family with toddler or as a side dish.
Ingredients
To make this delightful Veggie Orzo, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup broccoli (chopped)
- 1 cup carrots (finely shredded)
- 2 tsp garlic (minced)
- 1 cup orzo
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 oz cream cheese
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese
Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.
How to Make the Recipe
Now, let’s dive into the steps to create this delicious dish:
- Chop broccoli florets into small pieces and shred the carrots finely.
- 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.
- Add the orzo and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-high and cook for 10-15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The orzo should absorb most of the chicken broth by the time it’s done cooking.
- Once the orzo is tender and the broth is mostly absorbed, stir in the cream cheese and parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheeses are fully melted and the dish is creamy.
- Allow the Veggie Orzo to cool slightly before serving to your toddler. It’s delicious as is, or you can pair it with grilled chicken or fish for added protein.
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
Here are some helpful suggestions to ensure your Veggie Orzo turns out perfectly:
- Feel free to swap in any veggies your kids love! Zucchini or peas can be great additions.
- If you want to make this dish even creamier, add a splash of milk or a dollop of sour cream.
- For a little extra flavor, consider adding some Italian seasoning or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- This recipe is also great for meal prep! Make a big batch and store it for quick lunches or dinners.
How to Serve
Serving this Veggie Orzo is a breeze! Here are some ideas:
- Serve it as a main dish for a quick family dinner.
- Pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a balanced meal.
- Use it as a side dish alongside your favorite protein.
- For a fun twist, serve it in a bowl topped with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of extra parmesan cheese.
Make Ahead and Storage
This Veggie Orzo is perfect for making ahead of time! Here’s how to store it:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up.
- If you want to make it ahead for a busy week, consider portioning it out for easy lunches or easy lunch ideas picky eaters.
In conclusion, this Veggie Orzo is a fantastic addition to your collection of weeknight dinner ideas. It’s quick, nutritious, and sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. If you’re in the mood for something sweet afterward, don’t forget to check out my Decadent Chocolate Cake or Moist Chocolate Cake for a delightful treat! Happy cooking!
Veggie Orzo
Ingredients
Method
- Chop broccoli into small pieces and shred carrots.
- Heat olive oil in a pot, sauté vegetables and garlic for 5 minutes.
- Add orzo and broth; boil, then simmer for 10-15 minutes until absorbed.
- Stir in cream cheese and parmesan until melted and creamy.
- Let cool slightly before serving. Optional: serve with grilled protein.