Creamy Lemon White Bean Orzo

Name: Creamy Lemon White Bean Orzo
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup orzo pasta; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed; 1 cup vegetable broth; Juice and zest of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

When I first experimented with this Creamy Lemon White Bean Orzo, I couldn't believe how delightful and simple it turned out. The combination of creamy textures with the zing of lemon made every bite exciting. It's a fantastic dish for a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends. I love how versatile it is; you can easily add vegetables or protein to suit your taste. This recipe captures the essence of healthy comfort food, and I'm thrilled to share it with you!

Created by

Ottilie James

Last updated on 2026-01-15T15:49:12.147Z

As I was whipping up this Creamy Lemon White Bean Orzo, the aroma of garlic and lemon filled my kitchen, making my mouth water. The simplicity of just a few ingredients, yet the depth of flavors achieved, really made me appreciate the beauty of fresh cooking. I decided to add a touch of fresh basil at the end, and it truly elevated the dish.

The orzo, when cooked perfectly, has this lovely consistency that pairs so well with the creamy white beans. I learned that stirring in a bit of the pasta cooking water at the end achieves that ideal creaminess without heavy cream. It's a game-changer!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Creamy texture that delights your palate
Bright, zesty flavor that awakens your senses
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy nights

      

Maximizing Flavor with Fresh Ingredients

In this Creamy Lemon White Bean Orzo, the freshness of your ingredients plays a crucial role. Using freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest enhances the dish's brightness, elevating the flavor profile significantly. I recommend choosing a ripe lemon with a vibrant, textured skin, as these tend to offer the best flavor. Additionally, fresh basil not only adds a pop of color but also brings an aromatic quality that complements the creamy orzo beautifully.

If you're looking to cut down on prep time, pre-minced garlic can be a great substitute for fresh garlic. However, for the most vibrant flavor, I always prefer using fresh garlic to sauté, as it releases essential oils, creating a fragrant base for your dish. Remember to add the garlic to the oil at medium heat to avoid burning, which can quickly turn your preparation sour.

Customizing Your Dish

This recipe is incredibly versatile—feel free to tailor it to your preferences. If you're craving extra protein, consider adding cooked chicken or shrimp. Simply toss these proteins in during the simmering step after adding the broth to warm them through. For a vegetarian option, robust vegetables like spinach or kale can be added. Adding them during the final stages will ensure they retain their texture and don’t become overly wilted.

If you're watching your carbs, substituting orzo with a whole grain or gluten-free variety would maintain the dish's spirit without sacrificing taste. Brown rice or quinoa can be used, though you'll need to adjust the simmering time and liquid amounts, as these grains absorb more water and take longer to cook than orzo.

Ingredients

For the Orzo

1 cup orzo pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup vegetable broth
Juice and zest of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

Mix well and enjoy the vibrant flavors!

Instructions

Cook the Orzo

In a large pot, bring water to a boil and cook the orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Sauté Garlic

In the same pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Combine Ingredients

Add white beans, vegetable broth, lemon juice, and zest to the garlic. Stir well and let it simmer for about 5 minutes.

Mix in Orzo

Add the cooked orzo to the pot and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Enjoy your creamy orzo hot and freshly made!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes during the sautéing of garlic. You can also incorporate steamed vegetables like spinach or peas for added nutrition.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Creamy Lemon White Bean Orzo can easily be made ahead of time, making it an excellent choice for meal prep. Cook the orzo and combine it with the creamy mixture, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth or a drizzle of olive oil to revive the creamy texture, as the dish may thicken in the fridge.

While I recommend serving this dish fresh for the best texture, leftovers can be enjoyed cold as a pasta salad. Simply toss the chilled orzo with some extra lemon juice, olive oil, diced vegetables, and herbs for a refreshing next-day lunch option. This twist ensures you're not only enjoying a different presentation but also maximizing your meal prep efforts.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

To create a well-rounded meal, consider serving your Creamy Lemon White Bean Orzo alongside a light arugula salad tossed with a simple lemon vinaigrette. The peppery notes of the arugula beautifully contrast the creamy orzo, making each bite an adventure. For a heartier meal, grilled veggies and a slice of crusty bread can also complement this dish well.

Wine pairing can enhance your dining experience. A crisp white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc, will balance the dish’s creaminess and brighten the flavors with its acidity. Alternatively, if you prefer a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with a slice of lemon can invigorate the palate and bring out the dish's subtle citrus notes.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use any type of pasta instead of orzo?

Yes, you can substitute orzo with any small pasta shape, but cooking times may vary.

→ Can this recipe be made vegan?

Absolutely! Ensure you use vegetable broth and check that the white beans are canned without added ingredients.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of water to keep it creamy.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prep the ingredients ahead of time, but it's best to cook the orzo fresh and combine everything just before serving.