Creamy Lemon Ricotta Orzo with Garlic-Roasted Chickpeas

If you’re looking for a dish that’s creamy, zesty, and packed with texture, this Creamy Lemon Ricotta Orzo with Garlic-Roasted Chickpeas is calling your name! This recipe brings together velvety lemon-kissed orzo and crispy, spiced chickpeas for a meal that feels indulgent but is actually quite simple to make.

I can’t get enough of this dish, and I have a feeling you’ll love it too! The combination of ricotta and Parmesan gives the orzo a luscious, creamy consistency, while the lemon adds just the right amount of brightness. And let’s not forget the roasted chickpeas—they add an irresistible crunch that takes this dish to the next level.

Let’s dive in and make this comforting yet elegant meal together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fast & easy: This dish comes together in just 35 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights!
• Creamy and satisfying: Ricotta and Parmesan create a rich, velvety texture that pairs beautifully with the orzo.
• Flavor-packed: The combination of garlic, smoked paprika, and fresh herbs brings depth and vibrancy.
• Great for meal prep: The leftovers store well and taste just as good the next day.
• Vegetarian-friendly: A wholesome, meat-free meal that’s both nourishing and delicious!

What Does This Dish Taste Like?

The orzo is smooth and creamy, with a fresh pop of lemon that cuts through the richness of the cheese. Every bite is balanced with a hint of garlic and the deep, nutty notes of Parmesan. The roasted chickpeas add a crunchy, smoky contrast with a touch of warmth from the paprika. It’s an explosion of flavors and textures that make this dish anything but boring!

Ingredients

For the Orzo:

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• ½ cup vegetable or chicken broth
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp fresh basil or parsley (chopped, for garnish)

For the Garlic-Roasted Chickpeas:

• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas (drained, rinsed, and patted dry)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper

Essential Tools You’ll Need

• Baking sheet – for roasting the chickpeas.
• Parchment paper – to prevent sticking.
• Medium pot – for cooking the orzo.
• Mixing bowl – for tossing the chickpeas with seasonings.
• Zester or grater – to get that fresh lemon zest.
• Wooden spoon or spatula – for stirring everything together.

Ingredient Swaps & Additions

Want to make this dish your own? Here are some ideas!

• Add protein: Stir in cooked shrimp, grilled chicken, or even crispy tofu for an extra boost.
• Make it extra green: Toss in spinach or arugula when mixing the orzo to sneak in some veggies.
• Try different cheeses: Swap ricotta for goat cheese or mascarpone for a different kind of creaminess.
• Add some heat: A pinch of red pepper flakes in the orzo or chickpeas will give this dish a spicy kick.
• Use whole wheat orzo: For a healthier twist with extra fiber.

How to Make Creamy Lemon Ricotta Orzo with Garlic-Roasted Chickpeas

Roast the Chickpeas

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, combine chickpeas, olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toss well to coat.
3. Spread the chickpeas evenly on the baking sheet and roast for 20–25 minutes, shaking the pan halfway through. They should be golden and crispy when done.

Cook the Orzo

1. Bring a medium pot of salted water to a boil and cook the orzo according to the package instructions. Drain and return to the pot.

Make It Creamy

1. Stir in the ricotta, Parmesan, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, and vegetable broth.
2. Mix well until the orzo is smooth and creamy.
3. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Assemble & Serve

1. Spoon the creamy orzo onto plates or bowls.
2. Top with the crispy roasted chickpeas.
3. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve immediately.

That’s it—time to dig in!

What to Serve with This Dish

While this orzo is satisfying on its own, here are some delicious pairing ideas:

• A fresh side salad – A crisp arugula or spinach salad with a lemon vinaigrette complements the dish beautifully.
• Garlic bread or focaccia – Perfect for soaking up any extra creamy sauce.
• Grilled vegetables – Zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus would be a great addition.
• A glass of white wine – A chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs wonderfully with the lemony flavors.

Tips for Perfect Orzo & Chickpeas

• Make sure to dry the chickpeas well before roasting—this helps them crisp up better.
• Don’t overcook the orzo! It should be al dente so it doesn’t become mushy when mixed with the ricotta.
• Adjust the consistency by adding a little more broth if needed—this keeps the orzo extra creamy.
• Taste and adjust seasoning before serving. A little extra lemon juice or Parmesan can make all the difference!

How to Store Leftovers

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Warm it in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce.
• Freeze? I don’t recommend freezing this dish, as the creamy texture can change once thawed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different pasta?

Absolutely! You can swap orzo for couscous, quinoa, or even small pasta shapes like ditalini or mini shells.

How do I make this dairy-free?

Substitute the ricotta with dairy-free alternatives like cashew cream or almond-based ricotta. Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

Can I make the chickpeas ahead of time?

Yes! Store roasted chickpeas in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Re-crisp them in the oven for a few minutes before serving.

More Delicious Recipes to Try

Looking for more fresh and flavorful recipes? Check these out:

• Feta and Cranberry Chickpeas with Lemon Vinaigrette
• Feta and Cranberry Orzo with Lemon Vinaigrette
• The Jennifer Aniston Salad – Fresh, Flavorful, and Perfect for Any Occasion

Let’s Connect!

If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear about it! Leave a comment, rate the recipe, or share a photo on Pinterest—I can’t wait to see your creations!

Happy cooking! 🍋✨

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