Busy weeknights and potlucks call for quick and easy side dishes that don't compromise on flavor. This Instant Pot Orzo Pilaf is your answer. Made with tiny orzo pasta, vegetable broth, and a Knorr vegetable soup mix, this flavorful pilaf cooks up in your Instant Pot in just minutes.
It's a perfect accompaniment to roast chicken, brisket, or lamb chops for a satisfying meal, and it can be easily whipped up for festive gatherings like Hanukkah or any time you need a delicious side dish in a hurry.
Ingredients You'll Need
Made with orzo pasta, vegetable broth, and a Knorr vegetable soup mix, this recipe is not only simple to prepare but also budget-friendly. The orzo cooks up al dente and absorbs the savory flavors of the broth and soup mix, resulting in a versatile side dish that complements a variety of main courses.
You can use any dry soup mix you prefer, but a vegetable or onion soup mix keeps this dish vegetarian.
- Olive oil
- Garlic, minced
- Orzo pasta
- Dry Vegetable Soup mix (I used a Knorr vegetable soup and dip mix).
How To Make Quick Instant Pot Orzo Pilaf
Don't skip toasting the uncooked orzo pasta. The toasting of the pasta adds amazing flavor to the final pilaf. Be careful not to burn the minced garlic as well.
Saute The Garlic
- Heat the olive oil in the Instant Pot insert pan on the 'saute' function. Add the minced garlic and saute until soft and fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Remove the garlic and set aside. Add the orzo pasta to the Instant Pot insert pan.
Toast The Orzo
- Continue using the 'saute' function and stir the orzo frequently so that it toasts up golden brown in the garlic flavored olive oil, about 3 to 5 minutes.
Add Dry Vegetable Soup Mix and Broth
- Empty the dry vegetable soup mix and vegetable broth (or water) into the Instant Pot and stir to mix well.
Set The Pressure and Time
- Lock the Instant Pot lid in place and set to high pressure for 2 minutes. The countdown will start after the Instant Pot reaches full pressure, about 10 minutes.
Fluff and Serve
- When the cook time is complete, do a quick release by manually turning the vent to discharge the pressure and steam. Take care to keep your hand and fingers away from the venting steam.
- Using a spatula, stir the orzo, which may still be slightly under cooked. Place the lid back on the Instant Pot and allow to sit for 3 to 5 minutes to finish cooking and absorb any excess moisture.
- Fluff the orzo pilaf and transfer to a serving dish. Garnish and serve immediately.
Substitutions
Here are a few delicious variations or substitutions when making this orzo recipe.
- You can substitute chicken broth or beef broth for the vegetable broth.
- Add chopped vegetables like carrots, peas, or bell peppers to the pot along with the orzo for an extra boost of nutrients.
- Fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or rosemary can be added towards the end of cooking for a touch of fresh flavor.
Tips for Success
Here are a few tips for making this recipe:
- Fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or rosemary can be added towards the end of cooking for a touch of fresh flavor.
- The proper ratio of liquid to orzo is crucial for achieving the perfect texture. This recipe uses a 2:1 ratio of liquid to orzo, resulting in a flavorful and moist pilaf.
- To prevent mushy pasta, be mindful of the cooking time. The orzo will continue to absorb some liquid as it sits.
Serving Suggestions
This Instant Pot Orzo Pilaf is a particularly fitting side dish for many Jewish celebrations. The tiny orzo pasta and fluffy texture complement a variety of traditional dishes commonly served during Shabbat and Hanukkah meals.
It's a perfect accompaniment to roasted chicken, brisket, or lamb chops, making it a comforting and flavorful side dish that everyone will enjoy.
Storage Options
- Leftover Instant Pot Orzo Pilaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until
- While technically freezable, freezing can alter the texture of the orzo, making it slightly mushy upon reheating. It's best enjoyed fresh.
Equipment
Equipment can have a big impact on how a recipe turns out. Below are some of my favorite pieces of equipment that I use when making this recipe.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Any dry Onion soup and dip mix will work as well. You can also use vegetable bouillon and some chopped vegetables and aromatics.
This pilaf can also be prepared on the stovetop. Follow steps 1 and 2 in a large pot or Dutch oven. After sauteing the orzo, add the remaining ingredients and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
Here's The Recipe
You can print this recipe out now, or email it to your inbox to print out later! My step-by-step visual tutorial below the recipe will show you how I make this Quick Instant Pot Orzo Pilaf.
Instant Pot Orzo Pilaf
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 cup orzo
- 1 envelope dry soup vegetable or onion
- 3 ¼ cup vegetable broth or water
- parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in the Instant Pot insert pan on the 'saute' function. Add the minced garlic and saute until soft and fragrant, about 30 seconds.2 tablespoon olive oil, 2 cloves garlic
- Remove the garlic and set aside. Add the orzo pasta to the Instant Pot insert pan.2 cup orzo
- Continue using the 'saute' function and stir the orzo frequently so that it toasts up golden brown in the garlic flavored olive oil, about 3 to 5 minutes.
- Empty the dry vegetable soup mix and vegetable broth (or water) into the Instant Pot and stir to mix well.1 envelope dry soup, 3 ¼ cup vegetable broth
- Lock the Instant Pot lid in place and set to high pressure for 2 minutes. The countdown will start after the Instant Pot reaches full pressure, about 10 minutes.
- When the cook time is complete, do a quick release by manually turning the vent to discharge the pressure and steam. Take care to keep your hand and fingers away from the venting steam.
- Using a spatula, stir the orzo, which may still be slightly under cooked. Place the lid back on the Instant Pot and allow to sit for 3 to 5 minutes to finish cooking and absorb any excess moisture.
- Fluff the orzo pilaf and transfer to a serving dish. Garnish and serve immediately.parsley
Notes
- Fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or rosemary can be added towards the end of cooking for a touch of fresh flavor.
- The proper ratio of liquid to orzo is crucial for achieving the perfect texture. This recipe uses a 2:1 ratio of liquid to orzo, resulting in a flavorful and moist pilaf.
- To prevent mushy pasta, be mindful of the cooking time. The orzo will continue to absorb some liquid as it sits.
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