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Creamy basil pesto orzo risotto with cherry tomatoes and a sprinkle of Parmesan served in a bowl. 26

Creamy Pesto Orzo with Cherry Tomatoes


  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

Tender orzo pasta in a creamy basil pesto sauce with cherry tomatoes, perfect for a quick weeknight meal.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped shallot
  • 1/4 cup dry white wine
  • 34 cups vegetable broth, warmed
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup basil pesto
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • salt and black pepper to taste
  • fresh basil leaves for garnish

  • Instructions

    1. Heat olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium heat and add garlic and shallot, cooking until fragrant.

    2. Add orzo and toast for one minute, stirring to coat in oil.

    3. Pour in white wine, stirring until reduced by half.

    4. Gradually add warm broth one ladle at a time, stirring and allowing liquid to absorb before adding more, until orzo is al dente.

    5. Stir in heavy cream and basil pesto until sauce is smooth and creamy, adding extra broth if needed.

    6. Fold in cherry tomatoes and Parmesan cheese, season with salt and pepper.

    7. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves.

    • Prep Time: 10 minutes
    • Cook Time: 20 minutes
    • Category: main course
    • Method: stovetop
    • Cuisine: italian

    Nutrition

    • Serving Size: 1 cup

    Keywords: creamy pesto orzo, basil pesto risotto, easy pesto orzo, cherry tomato pasta, weeknight dinner, one pot meal, italian comfort food