Minced Meat Broccoli Orzo
Orzo pasta, also known as risoni, is a unique and versatile type of pasta that's shaped like a large grain of rice. Its name comes from the Italian word for barley, which it resembles in appearance. This small but mighty pasta is a staple in many Mediterranean and Middle Eastern dishes, celebrated for its ability to absorb flavours and blend seamlessly into a variety of recipes.
One of the great things about orzo is its versatility. It can be used in soups, salads, pilafs, and even as a substitute for rice in risottos, or orzotos as they are called. Its small size and slightly chewy texture make it perfect for absorbing the flavours of whatever it’s cooked with, whether that's a rich broth, a tangy vinaigrette, or a creamy sauce. Because of its shape, orzo is excellent for adding body and substance to soups without overpowering the other ingredients.
This easy orzo with rich flavours of minced meat, the nutritional punch of broccoli, and delicious Parmesan cheese is a game-changer for those hectic days. The minced meat provides a robust and savoury base that infuses the orzo with deep, comforting flavours and the broccoli adds not only a vibrant green hue, but also a wealth of nutrients, ensuring the dish is both satisfying and wholesome.
But what really ties this dish together is the Parmesan cheese. Its creamy, nutty flavour melts beautifully into the warm orzo and meat mixture, creating a luxurious, velvety texture that’s hard to resist. The cheese adds just the right amount of saltiness, balancing the dish perfectly.
It’s a go-to recipe that proves you don’t need a lot of time or complicated ingredients to create something truly delicious.
On olive oil cook minced meat and minced garlic for 3-4 minutes and season with salt and pepper.
Add in broccoli florets and raw orzo pasta, cover with hot vegetable stock and adjust the seasoning.
Simmer for 10 minutes and add more stock as necessary.
Once the orzo is cooked al dente, remove from heat and stir in the parmesan cheese until incorporated.
Minced Meat Broccoli Orzo
Ingredients
Instructions
- On olive oil cook minced meat and minced garlic for 3-4 minutes and season with salt and pepper.
- Add in broccoli florets and raw orzo pasta, cover with hot vegetable stock and adjust the seasoning.
- Simmer for 10 minutes and add more stock as necessary.
- Once the orzo is cooked al dente, remove from heat and stir in the parmesan cheese until incorporated.
