Instant Pot Orzo
Course: Main DishServings
4
servingsPrep time
5
minutesCooking time
2
minutesTotal time
15
minutesIngredients
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 cups orzo
3 1/4 cups water or broth
1/4 teaspoon salt
Directions
- Set the Instant Pot to Saute setting on Less or Normal, and heat the olive oil.
- Saute the garlic for about 30 seconds.
- Add the orzo and toast for about 3 to 5 minutes.
- Add the water or broth, and deglaze the pot.
- Lock the lid, and cook on High pressure for 2 minutes.
- When done, quick release the Instant Pot, and turn off.
- Stir the orzo, then let sit in the Instant Pot for another 3 to 5 minutes.
- Stir the orzo again, and move the orzo into a serving dish (so the cooking stops).
- Serve the orzo as is, with grated cheese or herbs.
Notes
- For a full pound of orzo, use 3 1/2 cups water or broth.
- Lemon spinach orzo: add lemon pepper when first adding the orzo to the Instant Pot. After quick release, let the orzo sit for 3 to 5 minutes (as above), then add 1 cup grated cheese, 2 Tablespoons lemon juice, and 2 cups of spinach.
- Orzo mac and cheese: after Quick Release, add 2 cups grated cheese and 1/2 cup milk. Let the orzo sit for 3 to 5 minutes (as above).
- Mushroom orzo: after Quick Release, turn the Instant Pot to Saute setting on Normal or Less. Add 2 oz slices mushrooms and 1 cup grated cheese, and stir. Add a bit of water or broth a little at a time until it’s a good, creamy texture.