Creamy Orzo with Green Peas and Crispy Prosciutto

Creamy Orzo with Green Peas and Crispy Prosciutto is a delightful dish that combines the wonderful flavors of creamy sauce, sweet peas, and crispy prosciutto. This pasta dish is hearty and satisfying, making it perfect for a quick dinner or a cozy meal. It’s easy to make and is sure to please everyone at the table.

Why Make This Recipe

You should make Creamy Orzo with Green Peas and Crispy Prosciutto because it is simple and delicious! The creamy texture of the orzo pairs wonderfully with the crispy prosciutto and fresh peas. It’s a great way to incorporate more greens into your diet while enjoying a tasty meal. Plus, this recipe is quick, so you can prepare it on busy weeknights or impress guests on the weekend.

How to Make Creamy Orzo with Green Peas and Crispy Prosciutto

Here’s how to make this scrumptious dish:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 4 oz prosciutto, sliced into strips
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions:

1. Cook the Prosciutto: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the prosciutto and sauté until it is crispy. This should take about 3-5 minutes. Remove the crispy prosciutto from the skillet and set it aside on a paper towel to drain.

2. Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic. Sauté until it becomes fragrant, which takes about 1 minute. Be careful not to let it burn.

3. Cook the Orzo: Add the orzo to the skillet and cook it for 1-2 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent it from sticking.

4. Add Broth: Pour in the broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook the orzo until it’s al dente, stirring occasionally. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes.

5. Add Peas and Cream: Stir in the green peas, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the peas are heated through and everything is creamy.

6. Season: Taste the dish and season with salt and pepper to your liking.

7. Serve: Serve the creamy orzo in bowls, topped with the crispy prosciutto. You can also garnish with fresh parsley if you wish.

How to Serve Creamy Orzo with Green Peas and Crispy Prosciutto

Serve this dish hot, right after cooking. It makes for a fantastic main course or a side dish. Pair it with a light salad or some crusty bread if desired.

How to Store Creamy Orzo with Green Peas and Crispy Prosciutto

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. When reheating, you may need to add a splash of broth or cream to bring back the creamy consistency.

Tips to Make Creamy Orzo with Green Peas and Crispy Prosciutto

• Make sure to stir the orzo frequently as it cooks to keep it from sticking.
• If you want extra flavor, you can add some Italian seasoning or lemon zest.
• Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving to ensure the best flavor.

Variation (If Any)

You can change this recipe by adding other vegetables like spinach or asparagus. For a vegetarian version, simply omit the prosciutto and add more veggies or some nuts for crunch.

FAQs

Can I use another type of pasta instead of orzo?
Yes, you can use small pasta shapes like ditalini or even rice if you prefer.

Can I freeze this dish?
It’s best to eat it fresh, but you can freeze the orzo without the prosciutto. The prosciutto does not freeze well.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or whole milk, but it may be less creamy. A non-dairy cream can work, too, if you want a dairy-free option.