Lemon Leek Orzo: Fresh, creamy, and full of flavor: This Lemon Leek Orzo combines tender rice-shaped pasta (also known as kritharaki) with aromatic leeks, fresh lemon juice, and creamy cream cheese. Parmesan perfectly rounds off the dish. Quick to prepare, light yet satisfying – ideal for camping kitchens, but also as a summery salad or an uncomplicated lunch at home. A true comfort food with a Mediterranean touch!
Ingredients for the Orzo with Leek and Lemon
Ingredients
• 1 leek
• 250 g orzo (rice-shaped pasta / kritharaki)
• 500 ml vegetable broth
• 100 g cream cheese
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 50 g Parmesan
• Salt & pepper
• Optional: a little extra broth or water for a creamier consistency
• A little olive oil for sautéing
• Optional: finely chopped garlic for more aroma
Preparation of the creamy Orzo dish
Preparation
1. Clean the leek, wash thoroughly, and cut into fine rings.
2. Heat a little olive oil or butter in a pot and briefly sauté the leek and optional garlic.
3. Add the orzo, toast briefly, and deglaze with the vegetable broth.
4. Simmer over medium heat for approx. 10–12 minutes until the pasta is cooked and the liquid is almost absorbed.
5. Stir in the cream cheese until a creamy sauce forms.
6. Add lemon juice and freshly grated Parmesan and mix well.
7. If the pasta seems too dry, add a little more broth or water until a nice "gooey" consistency is achieved.
8. Season with salt and pepper and serve immediately – also goes excellently with fresh salads or with spinach as an extra vegetable side dish.
Tip
Stir frequently, as the small pasta can quickly stick to the bottom. This dish is also excellent for on-the-go, for example when camping on a gas grill, thanks to its simple preparation and flexible ingredients.
