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–+ servings
Veggie Orzo

Creamy Veggie Orzo: Quick Comfort for the Whole Family

This creamy veggie orzo is a toddler-friendly dish packed with vegetables, made in just 20 minutes, perfect for family dinners.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil Substitute with avocado oil or butter
  • 1 cup Orzo Gluten-free options include certified gluten-free orzo or quinoa
  • 2 cups Chicken Broth For vegetarian version, use vegetable broth
For the Veggies
  • 1 cup Broccoli Chopped; substitute with zucchini or spinach
  • 1 cup Carrots Finely shredded; frozen shredded carrots work well
  • 2 tsp Garlic Minced; feel free to use garlic powder if fresh isn't available
For Creaminess
  • 1 oz Cream Cheese Swap with dairy-free cream cheese for plant-based options
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Substitute with mozzarella or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free choice

Equipment

  • Medium Pot

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Veggie Orzo
  1. Begin by preparing your vegetables for the Veggie Orzo. Finely chop 1 cup of broccoli into small pieces and shred 1 cup of carrots. Set aside.
  2. In a medium pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add broccoli, carrots, and 2 teaspoons of minced garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes until fragrant and softened.
  3. Add 1 cup of orzo and 2 cups of chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for approximately 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and most liquid is absorbed.
  4. Remove the pot from heat and stir in 1 ounce of cream cheese and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and incorporated.
  5. Allow the creamy Veggie Orzo to cool slightly before serving. Optionally, pair with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 12gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 4gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 40mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Ensure your veggies are finely chopped for a toddler-friendly texture.

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