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Lemon-Basil Vegan Orzo

This bright and flavorful vegan orzo combines tender pasta with fresh lemon juice and fragrant basil, creating a dish that’s both light and satisfying. The recipe emphasizes simple techniques like roasting garlic and infusing the pasta with citrus and herbs, resulting in a silky, herbaceous coating with vibrant color and aroma.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Vegan, Vegetarian
Calories: 330
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup orzo pasta dry
  • 4 cloves garlic whole cloves for roasting
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for roasting garlic and finishing dish
  • 1 large lemon juiced, plus zest optional
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil roughly chopped
  • to taste salt & pepper for seasoning

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Baking sheet
  • Large Skillet
  • Ladle

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place whole garlic cloves on a baking sheet, drizzle with a tablespoon of olive oil, and roast for about 15 minutes until golden and fragrant.
  2. Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  3. Once the garlic is roasted and cooled slightly, squeeze the roasted cloves out of their skins into a small bowl. Mash with the back of a spoon to release their mellow, caramelized flavor.
  4. In a large skillet, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the mashed garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant and slightly bubbling.
  5. Pour in the freshly squeezed lemon juice and stir to combine, allowing the mixture to simmer briefly and meld with the garlic aroma.
  6. Add the cooked orzo to the skillet, tossing gently to coat the pasta evenly with the lemon-herb mixture. Let it warm through for 2-3 minutes.
  7. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped basil, ensuring it’s evenly distributed and fragrant.
  8. Taste and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper as desired. Squeeze additional lemon juice if you prefer more zing.
  9. Transfer the vibrant, herbaceous vegan orzo to a serving bowl. Garnish with extra basil leaves if desired and serve immediately.

Notes

For added texture, toss in cherry tomatoes or sautéed vegetables before mixing the pasta. This dish pairs beautifully with a light salad or grilled vegetables.