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–+ servings
Creamy Lemon Zucchini Orzo

Creamy Lemon Zucchini Orzo – Your New Favorite Vegan Comfort Dish

A delightful vegan dish featuring creamy textures and zesty lemon notes, perfect for quick dinners.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Orzo
  • 1 cup Orzo Substitute with gluten-free orzo for a gluten-free option.
For the Vegetables
  • 2 medium Zucchini Shred and dry thoroughly to avoid sogginess.
  • 1 medium Shallot Can substitute with yellow onion if unavailable.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Fresh garlic is recommended for the best flavor.
For the Creamy Base
  • 2 tablespoons Vegan Butter Substitute with olive oil or regular butter for non-vegan versions.
  • 1 cup Non-Dairy Milk (unsweetened) Almond, soy, or oat milk work well; ensure no sweetened versions are used.
  • ½ cup Vegan Parmesan Substitute with nutritional yeast for a lighter option.
For the Seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon Oregano Use fresh if available for a brighter taste.
  • ½ teaspoon Thyme Can be replaced with rosemary or omitted if unavailable.
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice Prefer fresh lemon juice for optimal taste.

Equipment

  • Pot
  • box grater
  • Food processor
  • cheesecloth or kitchen towel

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Prepare the Zucchini: Shred the zucchini and squeeze out excess moisture using cheesecloth or a towel.
  2. Cook the Orzo: Boil salted water, add orzo, and cook according to package instructions, around 8-10 minutes.
  3. Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, melt vegan butter, add diced shallots and minced garlic, and sauté for 1 minute.
  4. Add Zucchini: Stir in shredded zucchini and cook for about 5 minutes until tender.
  5. Combine Orzo and Zucchini: Return drained orzo to the pot, mixing thoroughly.
  6. Create the Creamy Base: Stir in vegan parmesan, non-dairy milk, thyme, and lemon juice, heating for 2 minutes.
  7. Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Taste and adjust with salt and pepper, serve warm, garnished with fresh basil and oregano.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 10gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gSodium: 400mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 4gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Ensure to dry zucchini well and use fresh ingredients for the best taste and texture. For leftovers, reheat with a splash of non-dairy milk to maintain creaminess.

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