Savory Cottage Cheese Orzo

Creamy, hearty, and full of comforting flavors, this Savory Cottage Cheese Orzo is an easy and satisfying dish that’s perfect as a main course or a versatile side. Tender orzo pasta is cooked to perfection and folded with rich, protein-packed cottage cheese, fresh herbs, and a touch of garlic for a simple, flavorful meal you’ll love any night of the week.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Protein-Packed – Cottage cheese adds creaminess and a boost of protein.
Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes.
Versatile – Serve it as a side, a light main, or a hearty lunch.
Comforting Flavors – Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with fresh herbs.
Healthy & Wholesome – Nourishing and delicious with simple ingredients.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup cottage cheese (small curd or whipped)
• ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup milk (any kind)
• 1 tsp lemon zest (optional for brightness)
• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley or basil
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper

Optional Add-ins:

• 1 cup baby spinach (stirred in at the end)
• ½ cup sautéed mushrooms
• ¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• A pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat

Tools You’ll Need

• Medium saucepan
• Large skillet
• Mixing spoon or spatula
• Strainer

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Orzo
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
Add the orzo and cook according to package instructions until al dente (about 8–10 minutes).
Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds to 1 minute, until fragrant but not browned.

Step 3: Combine Orzo and Cottage Cheese
Add the drained orzo to the skillet with the garlic.
Lower the heat and stir in the cottage cheese, milk, and parmesan cheese.
Mix until creamy and heated through.

Step 4: Add Herbs and Seasonings
Stir in lemon zest, parsley (or basil), salt, and black pepper.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 5: Serve
Serve immediately, garnished with extra herbs or a sprinkle of parmesan if desired.

Tips for Success
Cook Orzo Al Dente – Keeps the texture perfect and not mushy.
Use Fresh Herbs – Adds the best bright, fresh flavor.
Adjust Creaminess – Add a splash more milk if you want it creamier.
Don’t Overheat Cottage Cheese – Gently warm to maintain its creamy texture.
Customize It – Add veggies, greens, or proteins to make it your own.

Serving Suggestions
As a Side Dish – Great with grilled chicken, fish, or roasted vegetables.
As a Main Course – Add sautéed spinach or cooked shrimp for a full meal.
In Lunch Bowls – Combine with greens and a protein for a hearty lunch.
With a Fresh Salad – Serve alongside a crisp garden salad for balance.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
Store cooled orzo in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing:
Not recommended, as the creamy texture may change when thawed.

Reheating:
Stovetop: Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of milk or water to loosen.
Microwave: Warm in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other pasta instead of orzo?
   Yes! Small pasta like ditalini or pearl couscous works well too.
2. Can I make this dairy-free?
   You can use dairy-free cottage cheese and milk substitutes, but the flavor and texture will be slightly different.
3. Is this good served cold?
   Yes! It’s delicious as a cold pasta salad too—just add a little extra olive oil.
4. Can I add protein?
   Definitely—grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas would be great.
5. Can I make it spicy?
   Yes! Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce.

Final Thoughts
This Savory Cottage Cheese Orzo is creamy, satisfying, and packed with fresh, wholesome flavors. It’s the perfect quick dinner, comforting side dish, or hearty lunch option. Easy to customize and always delicious, it’s sure to become a regular on your meal rotation.

Cook up a skillet of cozy goodness today and enjoy every creamy bite! Don’t forget to share your savory orzo creations online!

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Cuisine: American / Healthy Comfort Food

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – serves 4):
Calories: 280 | Protein: 12g | Carbohydrates: 26g | Fat: 14g | Fiber: 2g | Sodium: 320mg

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