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Lemon Herb Ricotta Baked Orzo Recipe

Lemon Herb Ricotta Baked Orzo

Welcome to a delightful culinary adventure with our Lemon Herb Ricotta Baked Orzo. This dish combines the comforting texture of orzo pasta with the creamy goodness of ricotta cheese, all infused with zesty lemon and aromatic herbs. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply looking for a satisfying weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to impress.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Lemon Herb Ricotta Baked Orzo
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 lemon zested and juiced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan
  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • Baking dish (9x9 or similar)
  • Colander
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Grater

Method
 

  1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Step 2: In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of vegetable broth to a boil. Add 1 cup of orzo pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  3. Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of ricotta cheese, 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, the zest and juice of 1 lemon, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 minced cloves of garlic, and the dried oregano and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix thoroughly.
  4. Step 4: Gently fold the cooked orzo into the cheese mixture, ensuring every piece of pasta is evenly coated.
  5. Step 5: Grease your baking dish with olive oil. Pour the orzo and cheese mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly.
  6. Step 6: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden-brown with bubbly edges.
  7. Step 7: Once baked, let it cool for a few minutes and garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Notes

This baked orzo can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.