Quick and Easy Lemon Orzo with Parmesan and Peas

As the winter is starting to melt away we make recipes that scream spring like this quick and easy lemon orzo with Parmesan and peas.

We toast the orzo first to give it a delicious nutty flavor, and then add minced garlic for boldness. The orzo is then cooked with chicken broth and then we add peas, lemon and fresh thyme. It is a bright dish that is the perfect transition into spring!

The Beauty of Garden Produce

There’s truly nothing better than fresh garden produce. I didn’t understand this as a child and I don’t know that many people have experienced true farm to table even today. Mom and Dad would harvest the garden with all of us kids at the end of summer, but for me it was the excitement of fresh corn, homemade raspberry jam, and making boats to float in our mudroom sink made out of hollowed out cucumbers, while Mom and Dad were anxious to cut open a juicy tomato, sprinkle it with a little salt and savor every bite.

I’m not kidding. I did not get that. I still don’t eat a tomato like an apple. Do you?

I have gained such an appreciation for food that you’ve labored over. It’s a fact: fresh picked tastes better.

Unfortunately, it’s not time for fresh peas but when they are ready we will be shelling them for this quick and easy lemon orzo with parmesan and peas. We often eat this as a main dish (check our our ham version for a main dish), but it’s wonderful and light so it makes a great healthy side dish as well.

What is Orzo?

I love this question; it’s so satisfying to see people’s reactions when they learn that orzo isn’t a grain, despite the fact that it looks like one. Spoiler: orzo is actually a flat, rice-shaped pasta that’s great in soups, salads, or enjoyed as is.

How is Orzo Different from Rice?

Although orzo can be cooked like rice and has similar nutritional information, it cooks up in about half the time. This is the number one reason why I love cooking with orzo. Well, that and the fact that I like the shape. And it tastes really good, especially when you toast it first. Okay, there are a lot of reasons why I love orzo. 

Is Orzo Healthier Than Rice?

Orzo has higher protein and fiber content than rice, but orzo has slightly higher carbohydrates per serving. Because orzo is higher in protein and fiber, it will help you feel fuller for longer which can help with weight loss.

Tips on How to Cook Orzo

Like I mentioned above, you can cook orzo like pasta, boiling it in liquid, which works well if you’re serving it in soup because you can

Skip the store-bought spice mixes and stir together a batch of homemade Cajun seasoning!

Cajun seasoning is a blend of herbs and spices often used to add a kick to dishes running the gamut from popcorn to veggies to meat! Most of your favorite Cajun-style recipes likely call for some version of a Cajun seasoning mix.

I first shared this recipe in The Weeknight Dinner Cookbook several years ago. This seasoning mix has been a staple in my spice cabinet ever since.

I use it at least twice a week and I figure it is long past time to share it here so that I can more easily link to it for you in other recipes.

What is Cajun Seasoning?

To the best of my knowledge, Cajun seasoning originated in Louisiana (which is why it’s also sometimes known as Louisiana cajun seasoning). The green can of Tony’s Creole Seasoning is a staple in the home of our Louisiana family and for years, Slap Ya Mama Cajun Seasoning was a staple in ours too.

Those are clearly the popular name-brand favorites, as you will often see them sold together. However, after trying my hand at making a homemade Cajun Seasoning, I’m pretty sure that this mix is going to be in my spice cabinet at all times now.

How to Make Cajun Seasoning

Many years ago, I first made this blend of Cajun spices when a recipe I was following required Cajun seasoning. I didn’t have any on hand at the time, but I did have every single one of the spices that goes into a Cajun seasoning mix.

So, what is in Cajun seasoning? The signature reddish brown color of Cajun seasoning comes courtesy of a hearty helping of smoked paprika. The peppery flavor is heightened with ga