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Pumpkin Orzo Recipe

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4.3 from 38 reviews

This creamy Pumpkin Orzo recipe combines tender orzo pasta with rich pumpkin puree, aromatic herbs, and a blend of spices to create a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for fall. Made with butter, tomato paste, and vegetable broth, this dish is finished off with creamy heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, offering a luscious texture and cozy taste. It can be easily adapted with vegan substitutes for a plant-based option.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 4 tablespoons (1/4 cup) butter (or vegan butter)
  • 1 lb. DeLallo Orzo Pasta
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1/8 teaspoon grated nutmeg
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, finely chopped
  • 2 1/2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream (or vegan alternative)
  • 1 cup pumpkin puree
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan (or vegan alternative)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Butter and Paste: In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the tomato paste and stir it in to combine well with the butter, allowing the flavors to meld for about 1-2 minutes.
  2. Add Spices and Herbs: Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, ground black pepper, grated nutmeg, and fresh thyme. Stir everything thoroughly so the spices become fragrant, about 1 minute.
  3. Cook the Orzo: Pour in the orzo pasta and stir to coat it with the butter and seasoning mixture. Then, add the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook the orzo, stirring occasionally, until tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, about 10-12 minutes.
  4. Add Pumpkin and Cream: Stir in the pumpkin puree and heavy cream, folding them into the orzo until well combined and heated through. Continue to cook for another 3-4 minutes, allowing the dish to become creamy and smooth.
  5. Finish with Cheese and Parsley: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the grated parmesan cheese until melted and blended. Garnish the pumpkin orzo with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

  • For a vegan version, substitute butter with vegan butter, heavy cream with coconut cream or another plant-based cream, and parmesan with a vegan cheese alternative.
  • Adjust seasoning to taste, adding more salt or pepper as desired.
  • This dish pairs well as a side with roasted meats or a hearty vegetable main course.
  • Use fresh pumpkin puree for the best flavor, or canned pumpkin puree as a convenient alternative.
  • Make sure to stir frequently when cooking orzo to prevent it from sticking to the pan.
  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Find it online: https://allyumcooks.com/pumpkin-orzo-recipe/