Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a mouthwatering Italian-inspired dish that will transform your ordinary dinner into a culinary adventure! This orzo recipe is not just a meal – it's a perfect harmony of savory sausage, tender vegetables, and creamy pasta that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. Whether you're a busy home cook or a passionate foodie, this one-skillet wonder promises to deliver maximum flavor with minimal effort.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 lb Italian sausage, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 1 cup of orzo pasta, 1 diced zucchini, 1 cup of sliced mushrooms, 1 pound of sliced Italian sausage, 2 minced cloves of garlic, 1/4 cup of grated parmesan cheese, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
- In a medium-sized pot, bring 4 cups of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the orzo pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the orzo is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced Italian sausage to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is browned and cooked through.
- Next, add the minced garlic to the skillet with the sausage and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Now, add the diced zucchini and sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and lightly browned.
- Once the orzo is cooked, reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the rest. Add the drained orzo to the skillet with the sausage and vegetables.
- Gently mix everything together, adding a bit of the reserved pasta water if needed to help combine. This will create a creamy texture.
- Finally, stir in the grated parmesan cheese until it is melted and well incorporated. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as desired.
- Serve the orzo warm, garnished with additional parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your delicious Italian dish!
Tips
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Opt for fresh Italian sausage and high-quality parmesan cheese to elevate the dish's flavor profile.
- Don't Overcook the Orzo: Keep a close eye on the pasta and aim for al dente texture – it should have a slight bite to it.
- Pasta Water is Your Secret Weapon: Always reserve some pasta water before draining. The starchy liquid helps create a silky, smooth sauce that binds all ingredients together.
- Customize Your Vegetables: Feel free to swap zucchini and mushrooms with seasonal vegetables like bell peppers or spinach.
- Enhance the Flavor: For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or fresh herbs like basil or parsley before serving.
- Prep Ahead: Chop all ingredients before you start cooking to ensure a smooth and stress-free cooking process.
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed hot, straight from the skillet, to maintain its creamy texture and vibrant flavors.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 65mg
