Rating: 4.5 stars
12 Ratings
  • 5 star values: 8
  • 4 star values: 2
  • 3 star values: 2
  • 2 star values: 0
  • 1 star values: 0

Though made with orzo rather than rice, this colorful dish is similar to a creamy risotto side. Topped with fresh Parmesan, chives and thyme, this pasta side is a tasty, vibrant side that is great for a crowd. Carrots loose their hard crunch while they boil, creating a smooth, soft textural bite, without turning the vegetable to mush. If you don't have orzo, you can substitute a pasta that you have on-hand, but we recommend sticking to orzo as it allows the carrot mixture to disperse throughout for mixed, plentiful bites.

Recipe by Southern Living June 2010

Gallery

Credit: Jennifer Davick; Styling: Sissy Lamerton

Recipe Summary

prep:
41 mins
total:
41 mins
Yield:
Makes 6 to 8 servings
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Ingredients

Ingredient Checklist

Directions

Instructions Checklist
  • Process carrots in a food processor 15 seconds or until finely chopped.

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  • Combine 2 1/2 cups water and broth in a microwave-safe measuring cup. Microwave at HIGH 5 minutes or until very hot.

  • Meanwhile, melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add carrots and onion, and cook, stirring occasionally, 5 minutes or until tender. Add orzo and garlic, and cook 1 minute.

  • Slowly stir hot broth mixture, salt, and pepper into orzo mixture. Cook, stirring often, 15 to 18 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.

  • Stir in Parmesan cheese, chives, and thyme until blended. Serve orzo immediately. Garnish, if desired.

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