Orzo Primavera with Zucchini and Corn
This dish brings together tender orzo pasta, sweet corn, and sautéed zucchini in a lemony olive oil dressing, finished with fresh herbs and a sprinkle of Parmesan or feta. It’s colorful, refreshing, and ideal as a light main or a side dish for grilled meats or fish.
Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Serves: 4
Ingredients
1 ½ cups orzo pasta
2 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 medium zucchini, diced into half-moons
1 ½ cups fresh corn kernels (or thawed frozen corn)
Zest & juice of 1 lemon
½ cup Parmesan cheese or feta, crumbled
¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
2 tbsp fresh basil or mint, chopped
Salt & black pepper, to taste
Optional garnish: red pepper flakes, toasted pine nuts
Instructions
1. Cook the Orzo
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook orzo until al dente (about 8–9 minutes).
Reserve ½ cup of cooking water, then drain and set aside.
2. Saute the Veggies
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Add onion and saute 3 minutes until softened.
Stir in garlic and cook 1 minute.
Add zucchini and cook 4–5 minutes until tender.
Add corn and cook another 2–3 minutes.
3. Combine Pasta & Veggies
Add the cooked orzo to the skillet.
Toss with lemon juice, zest, parsley, basil, salt, and pepper.
Stir in Parmesan/feta and a splash of reserved pasta water if needed for creaminess.
4. Serve
Plate warm and garnish with extra herbs, red pepper flakes, or pine nuts.
Notes & Tips
Make It Vegan: Skip cheese or use nutritional yeast.
Protein Boost: Add chickpeas, grilled chicken, or shrimp.
Extra Flavor: Stir in sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers.
Meal Prep Friendly: Keeps in the fridge for 3 days; enjoy warm or cold.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?
A: Yes — just thaw and pat dry before cooking.
Q: Can I serve this cold as a pasta salad?
A: Absolutely! Chill and drizzle with extra olive oil before serving.
Q: What’s the best cheese for this?
A: Parmesan gives a nutty flavor, while feta adds tangy creaminess.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 375
Protein: 13g
Fat: 12g
Carbs: 52g
Fiber: 5g
Sodium: 380mg