Savor the Comforting Elegance of Greek Orzo with Browned Butter.
Delight in the simplicity of Órzo Kaúto Voútyro, a Greek dish that transforms humble orzo pasta into a rich and satisfying treat.
Coated in nutty browned butter and topped with tangy Parmesan or traditional kefalotiri cheese, this recipe is a testament to the beauty of minimalism in Mediterranean cooking.
Perfect as a side dish or a quick and flavorful main, Orzo with Browned Butter pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, seafood, or fresh salads.
Its golden-brown butter sauce and creamy texture make it a versatile addition to any meal, delivering both comfort and elegance.
Easy to prepare and brimming with Greek culinary charm, this dish is ideal for weeknight dinners or festive occasions. Elevate your pasta game with this timeless recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite.
⦁ ½ lb orzo pasta
⦁ ¼ cup butter or margarine
⦁ 3 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (or kefalotiri for a tangier option)
1. Cook the Orzo: Prepare orzo according to package directions. Drain in a colander and set aside.
2. Brown the Butter: In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Cook until it turns golden brown and develops a nutty aroma, about 3–4 minutes.
3. Combine and Serve: Place the hot, drained orzo in a serving bowl. Pour the browned butter over the pasta and sprinkle with grated Parmesan or kefalotiri cheese. Toss to combine and serve immediately.
🛒 Choosing Ingredients:
✔ Orzo: Use high-quality Greek or Italian orzo for the best texture. Whole wheat orzo is a great option for extra fiber.
✔ Butter: Choose unsalted butter so you can control the salt level. European-style butter has a richer flavor and works beautifully for browning.
✔ Cheese & Herbs: Grated Mizithra, Kefalotyri, or Parmesan add a nutty depth. Fresh parsley or thyme complements the buttery sauce.
👩🍳 Preparation:
✔ Toasting Orzo (Optional): For extra flavor, lightly toast the orzo in a dry pan before boiling—it adds a deeper, nuttier taste.
✔ Cooking Orzo: Boil in well-salted water until al dente, about 8–10 minutes. Drain but reserve some pasta water to adjust sauce consistency.
✔ Browning the Butter: Melt butter over medium heat, stirring constantly until it turns golden brown and smells nutty. Watch closely to avoid burning!
🍳 Cooking:
✔ Combining Orzo & Butter: Add the cooked orzo directly into the browned butter, stirring to coat every grain for a rich, even flavor.
✔ Adjusting Consistency: If the orzo seems dry, mix in a splash of reserved pasta water or an extra pat of butter for silkiness.
✔ Final Seasoning: Add a pinch of black pepper, a squeeze of lemon juice, or a dusting of nutmeg for a subtle flavor boost.
📦 Storage:
✔ Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.
✔ Freezing: Not ideal, as pasta can become mushy upon thawing. If necessary, freeze in small portions and reheat with extra butter.
🍽 Serving:
✔ Garnishing: Top with grated cheese, chopped herbs, and toasted pine nuts for added texture and flavor.
✔ Pairing: Serve as a side to grilled lamb, chicken souvlaki, or roasted vegetables for a complete Mediterranean meal.