GLUTEN-FREE DAIRY-FREE CREAMY LEMON ORZO

Gluten-Free Creamy Lemon Orzo - Olivia Adriance

GLUTEN-FREE DAIRY-FREE CREAMY LEMON ORZO

A creamy side dish that nobody will believe is both gluten-free and dairy-free! This lemon orzo pairs well with just about any protein, such as baked or grilled chicken or fish.

Prep Time10

Cook Time20

Total Time30

Course: Main Course, Side Dish

Cuisine: American, French, Italian

Keyword: Lemon and Orzo, Orzo recipes, Pasta dishes, Pasta salad, Spring pasta salad

Servings:

Author: Olivia Adriance

Ingredients

8 ounces gluten-free orzo, cooked according to package instructions, then rinsed (I used Jovial)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium shallot, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
¼ teaspoon ground turmeric
1 cup frozen peas
(1) 13.5 ounce can full-fat coconut milk
Zest of 1 lemon
⅓ cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
1 ½ teaspoons salt (divided)
½ teaspoon fresh black pepper
1 tablespoon nutritional yeast
⅓ cup fresh herbs (dill, parsley, or basil)

For Serving:

Toasted pine nuts
Lemon wedges
Additional herbs for garnish

Instructions

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the orzo according to package directions. Drain and rinse under cold water, set aside. (Note, it’s important to cook the orzo in plenty of water and then strain/rinse under cold water right when it’s done—some packages say “don’t rinse” but just ignore that!)
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium. Add shallot and cook for about 2 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and turmeric and cook for 1 minute more.
Stir in peas and cook for 2 to 3 minutes. Add the coconut milk, lemon zest, lemon juice, 1/2 teaspoon salt, pepper, and nutritional yeast. Simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until slightly thickened.
Add the cooked orzo and toss to coat. Stir in fresh herbs and adjust salt or lemon to taste.
Plate warm and finish with a sprinkle of dairy-free parmesan, extra herbs, or toasted pine nuts, if desired.

Notes

Reheating Instructions: This dish is best served warm, so I suggest heating any leftovers on the stovetop. Add a splash of water or additional coconut milk if the grains are sticking together.

Nutrition