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Souper Creamy Lemon Butter Cheesy Zucchini Orzo

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This Souper Creamy Lemon Butter Cheesy Zucchini Orzo is a cozy one-pot pasta that’s creamy, cheesy, and loaded with fresh vegetables. With zucchini, kale, lemon, and Parmesan, it delivers risotto-like comfort in just 25 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights.

  • Author: Tina
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: One Pot
  • Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

3 tablespoons salted butter

3–4 cloves garlic, minced or grated

1 pound dry orzo pasta (gluten-free if needed)

2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves

2 medium zucchini or yellow summer squash, grated

1/2 bunch kale, finely shredded

3 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth

Zest and juice of 1 lemon

1 teaspoon onion powder

Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste

1/2 cup whole milk or canned full-fat coconut milk

3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or 2 teaspoons dried)

Instructions

  1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt butter. Add garlic and cook 1 minute until fragrant.
  2. Stir in orzo and thyme. Toast 2–3 minutes until golden.
  3. Add zucchini and kale. Cook 2–3 minutes until wilted.
  4. Deglaze with 1/2 cup broth. Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  5. Gradually add remaining broth. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer 8–10 minutes, stirring often, until orzo is al dente and creamy.
  6. Stir in milk, Parmesan, and parsley. Cook 2–3 minutes until smooth. Add more broth if needed to thin.
  7. Serve warm, topped with extra Parmesan, parsley, and a pat of butter if desired.

Notes

  • No need to drain zucchini—its moisture adds creaminess.
  • Swap kale with spinach, peas, or Swiss chard.
  • Add protein like rotisserie chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.
  • Make vegan with coconut milk and dairy-free Parmesan.
  • Reheat with extra broth or milk to keep creamy.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cheftinaskitchen.com/souper-creamy-lemon-butter-cheesy-zucchini-orzo/