There’s something about pesto that makes any dish feel special. I stumbled upon this pesto orzo pasta when I was looking for a simple yet flavorful side dish to go with dinner, and let me tell you, it quickly became a favorite.
The creamy, vibrant pesto paired with the small, delicate orzo pasta just hits all the right notes. It’s light, but with the right amount of indulgence, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or a weekend treat.
It’s the kind of pasta that’s packed with flavor yet incredibly easy to make. The rich basil pesto coats the orzo, creating a creamy, herbaceous sauce that’s fresh, garlicky, and just the right amount of zesty.
This dish is a perfect balance of bright, herby flavors with the comforting texture of pasta. Whether you’re serving it as a side or enjoying it as a main, it’s sure to impress everyone at the table.
Why You’ll Love This Pesto Orzo Pasta
This pesto orzo pasta is the perfect blend of simple ingredients and bold flavors. Here’s why you’ll want to keep this dish on rotation:
- Quick & Easy to Make – With just a few ingredients and about 20 minutes of prep, you’ll have a dish that’s both delicious and satisfying.
- Creamy and Fresh – The pesto brings in that garlicky freshness with a creamy texture that coats every bite of orzo perfectly.
- Versatile – Serve it as a side dish, toss in grilled chicken or veggies for a full meal, or even enjoy it cold as a pasta salad.
- Packed with Flavor – From the basil to the garlic and Parmesan, every bite is full of herbaceous goodness.
Whether you’re craving a light meal or a flavorful side dish, this pesto orzo is your new go-to.
Key Ingredients for Pesto Orzo Pasta
While this dish is all about the pesto, the key ingredients bring everything together beautifully:
- Orzo Pasta – The small, rice-shaped pasta is perfect for holding the pesto sauce and adds a soft, satisfying texture.
- Basil Pesto – You can use store-bought or make your own with fresh basil, garlic, Parmesan, and olive oil for a vibrant, creamy sauce.
- Parmesan Cheese – Adds a nutty, savory finish to the pesto, balancing the richness.
- Olive Oil – Adds richness and helps bring the pesto together, giving it a silky smooth consistency.
- Garlic – Fresh garlic enhances the pesto, adding a flavorful bite to the creamy sauce.
With a handful of pantry essentials, you’ll have a pasta dish that’s full of bold flavors and creamy goodness.
How to Make Pesto Orzo Pasta
Making pesto orzo is simple, and you can easily whip it up in under 30 minutes. Here’s how:
- Cook the Orzo – Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the orzo until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Pesto – If you’re making your own pesto, blend fresh basil, garlic, Parmesan, and olive oil until smooth. You can add a little extra oil if needed to get a nice, creamy texture.
- Toss the Orzo with Pesto – In a large bowl, toss the cooked orzo with the pesto until everything is evenly coated. If the pesto is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
- Season and Serve – Taste and adjust the seasoning with a little salt and pepper. Serve topped with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil for an extra touch.
It’s that simple! You’ve got a creamy, herby pasta in just a few easy steps.
What to Serve with Pesto Orzo Pasta
While pesto orzo is great on its own, it pairs perfectly with a few sides that complement its fresh, creamy flavors:
| Side Dish | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Grilled Chicken | Tender, juicy chicken balances the creamy pasta. |
| Garlic Bread | Perfect for soaking up any leftover pesto sauce. |
| Mixed Green Salad | A light, crisp salad provides a refreshing contrast. |
| Roasted Vegetables | Roasted zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers are a great way to add some texture and depth. |
| Bruschetta | A tangy, fresh topping that adds a burst of flavor. |
| Steamed Asparagus | Adds a bright, fresh bite that complements the pesto’s richness. |
How to Store and Reheat Pesto Orzo Pasta
Leftovers? No problem! This pesto orzo stores well, so you can enjoy it the next day.
How to Store Leftovers
- Store any leftover pesto orzo in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- To prevent it from drying out, make sure it’s coated with enough pesto sauce before storing.
How to Reheat
- Stovetop: Heat the pasta in a pan over low heat, adding a bit of pasta water or extra olive oil to loosen it up.
- Microwave: Reheat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between. Add a splash of water or oil to keep it moist.
- Oven: For a crispy top, you can bake it in an oven-safe dish at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, covering it with foil to keep it from drying out.
Tips for the Best Pesto Orzo Pasta
- Use fresh pesto for the best flavor. If you’re using store-bought, try to find one with high-quality ingredients.
- Reserve some pasta water before draining the orzo. It helps adjust the sauce’s consistency and makes it even smoother.
- Don’t overcook the pasta. Orzo cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it and drain it once it’s al dente.
- Add protein like grilled chicken or shrimp to turn this into a full meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make the pesto ahead of time?
Yes! You can make pesto ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. It also freezes well for up to 3 months.
2. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! You can use any short pasta, such as penne, fusilli, or farfalle.
3. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, use dairy-free Parmesan and a vegan pesto to make this dish completely dairy-free.
4. How can I make this more filling?
Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for extra protein and to make it more filling.
5. How do I store leftovers?
Store the pesto orzo in an airtight container in the fridge. Make sure it’s well-coated in sauce to prevent it from drying out.
This pesto orzo pasta is the perfect mix of creamy and fresh, and so easy to make. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner or a flavorful side, this dish will quickly become a favorite on your table.
Pesto Orzo Pasta
Equipment
- Large pot For cooking pasta
- Large Pan For sautéing garlic and making the sauce
- Wooden Spoon For stirring the pasta and sauce
Ingredients
- 12 ounces orzo pasta cooked
- 1 cup ricotta cheese fresh
- 1 jar basil pesto store-bought or homemade
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese freshly grated
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional for heat
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt to taste
Instructions
- Cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions. Drain, reserving some pasta water.
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, pesto, and a little pasta water to create a creamy sauce.
- Add the cooked orzo to the pan with the garlic and pesto sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly.
- Season with salt and red pepper flakes. Serve topped with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.
Notes
- Feel free to add grilled chicken, shrimp, or veggies for added protein.
- For extra creaminess, add more ricotta or a drizzle of **olive oil**.
- If you prefer a lighter dish, use a dairy-free pesto and ricotta alternative.
Andrew Gray is a seasoned food writer and blogger with a wealth of experience in the restaurant and catering industries. With a passion for all things delicious, Andrew has honed his culinary expertise through his work as a personal chef and caterer.
His love for food led him to venture into food writing, where he has contributed to various online publications, sharing his knowledge and insights on the culinary world. As the proud owner of CooksCrafter.com, Andrew covers a wide range of topics, including recipes, restaurant reviews, product recommendations, and culinary tips.
Through his website, he aims to inspire and educate fellow food enthusiasts, offering a comprehensive resource for all things food-related.