As the weather cools and the days get shorter, there’s nothing like a comforting meal to cosy up to at the end of the day. This Creamy Pea Orzo is one of my favourite go-to dishes when I need something quick, easy, and hearty for dinner. With its combination of soft mushrooms, sweet peas, and a touch of cream for extra richness, it’s a perfect fall dinner idea that’s ready in just 30 minutes.

What’s great about this recipe is how simple it is to pull together. The orzo soaks up the savoury vegetable or chicken stock, and the added cream gives it that indulgent, velvety texture without being too heavy. It’s the kind of healthy fall recipe that feels satisfying yet light, ideal for those cool evenings.

Why You'll Love This Recipe:

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you still want something homemade.

• Creamy and Comforting: The cream adds a luscious richness, making it feel like the ultimate cosy comfort food.

• Healthy Fall Recipe: Despite the creamy texture, it’s loaded with vegetables like mushrooms and peas, so you’re getting plenty of nutrients.

How to Make Creamy Pea Orzo:

This recipe starts with rehydrating dried mushrooms, which gives them a tender and silky texture. Then, you’ll cook orzo pasta in vegetable or chicken stock, letting it absorb all that flavour. Once the orzo is nearly cooked, you’ll stir in frozen peas, those softened mushrooms, and a splash of cream. The cream pulls everything together into a rich, creamy dish without making it feel too heavy.

Serve it with a light salad or just on its own—it’s satisfying enough to be the show's star. And the best part? It’s a one-pot wonder, so cleanup is a breeze!

Recipe Summary:

Creamy Pea Orzo
Serves: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups orzo pasta

• 1 cup frozen peas

• ½ cup dried mushrooms (reconstituted)

• 4 cups vegetable or chicken stock

• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• ½ cup heavy cream

• ½ cup grated Parmesan (optional)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Rehydrate the dried mushrooms in warm water for about 10 minutes, then chop them up.

2. In a medium saucepan, sauté the onion and garlic in olive oil or butter until softened.

3. Stir in the orzo pasta and cook for 1-2 minutes.

4. Add the stock, bring it to a simmer, and cook the orzo for about 10 minutes.

5. Stir in the mushrooms and peas, cooking for another 5 minutes.

6. Add the heavy cream and stir to combine, allowing it to heat through for about 2 minutes.

7. Stir in Parmesan (if using), season with salt and pepper, and garnish with parsley.

This Creamy Pea Orzo is the perfect balance of creamy, hearty, and healthy—a winning combination for any fall evening. So, give this a try next time you’re looking for fall meal ideas or a comforting dish that doesn’t take all night. I promise it’ll quickly become one of your go-to fall dinner ideas! .

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