Description
Indulge in the creamy goodness of this flavorful cottage cheese orzo recipe. With hints of lemon and garlic, this dish is a delightful medley of textures and tastes, perfect as a side or a light meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Orzo Pasta:
- 1 cup dry orzo pasta
Seasonings:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Cheese Mixture:
- 1/2 cup low-fat cottage cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup milk or reserved pasta water
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
Optional Add-ins:
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or basil
- Optional add-ins: sautéed spinach, peas, or grilled chicken
Instructions
- Cook Orzo: Boil orzo in salted water until al dente. Reserve pasta water and drain.
- Prepare Cheese Mixture: Sauté garlic in olive oil, then add cottage cheese, Parmesan, milk/water, lemon juice, zest, salt, and pepper. Cook until creamy.
- Combine: Toss cooked orzo with the cheese mixture until warm.
- Finish: Stir in fresh herbs and adjust seasoning. Serve topped with extra herbs or cheese.
Notes
- Opt for small-curd cottage cheese for a smoother texture.
- Pair with grilled chicken, salmon, or roasted veggies for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3/4 cup
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 320 mg
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 12 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg
