Pesto Zucchini Orzo with Charred Sweet Corn

Smoky charred zucchini and sweet corn blend beautifully in this Pesto Zucchini Orzo with Charred Sweet Corn recipe. This dish is not only refreshing but also quick to prepare, making it a perfect choice for summer gatherings or weeknight dinners. The combination of flavors and the ease of preparation ensures that this dish will quickly become a favorite in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep time, this dish can be on your table in just 40 minutes.
• Flavorful Combination: The smokiness of charred zucchini and sweet corn pairs perfectly with rich basil pesto for a delightful taste.
• Versatile Side Dish: This orzo dish complements various proteins like grilled chicken, beef, or turkey, making it suitable for any occasion.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with veggies and wholesome ingredients, it’s a nutritious option for family meals.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make it ahead of time and enjoy delicious leftovers throughout the week!

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Pesto Zucchini Orzo with Charred Sweet Corn, you’ll need a few essential tools. These tools will help you achieve the best results while keeping the cooking process smooth.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or cast iron pan
• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or cast iron pan: Essential for achieving that smoky char on the zucchini and corn, enhancing the flavor of your dish.
• Large skillet: Perfect for sautéing shallots and garlic, as well as cooking the orzo evenly.
• Cutting board & knife: Important for safely preparing your vegetables before cooking.

Ingredients

For this delightful Pesto Zucchini Orzo with Charred Sweet Corn, gather these ingredients:

Vegetables

• 3 medium ears sweet corn, husk and silk removed
• 2 medium zucchinis, ends trimmed and halved width-wise

Cooking Essentials

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 medium shallot, minced
• 2 medium cloves garlic, minced

Pasta and Broth

• 1 lb uncooked orzo pasta
• 4-1/2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)

Creamy Elements

• 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1/2 cup basil pesto (homemade or jarred)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
• 2 tablespoons minced fresh basil, plus more for serving

Seasoning

• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Pesto Zucchini Orzo with Charred Sweet Corn

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Rub corn and zucchini lightly all over with oil. Grill over medium-high heat (or pan sear in cast iron pan), turning occasionally until zucchini and corn are lightly charred all over.

Step 2: Cut the Vegetables

Transfer zucchini and corn to a cutting board. When cool enough to handle:
1. Cut kernels off of corn cobs.
2. Cut zucchini into 1/2-inch cubes.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add butter and swirl to coat the pan.
1. Add shallot; sauté several minutes until softened.
2. Add garlic and orzo; cook for 1-2 minutes until orzo is lightly toasted.

Step 4: Cook the Orzo

Add broth to skillet; stir until evenly combined. Bring to a simmer over medium heat:
1. Reduce heat to medium-low; allow to simmer for 10-15 minutes until most liquid is reduced, stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Remove orzo from heat; stir in charred corn, zucchini, heavy cream, pesto, Parmesan, and basil until evenly combined.

Step 6: Season and Serve

Season orzo with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm with additional Parmesan and basil sprinkled on top. Enjoy!

How to Serve Pesto Zucchini Orzo with Charred Sweet Corn

Pesto Zucchini Orzo with Charred Sweet Corn is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or enjoying a cozy family dinner, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

As a Main Dish

• Serve it hot as the star of your meal, paired with grilled chicken or turkey for a balanced dinner.

In a Zucchini Bowl

• Present the orzo in hollowed-out zucchini halves for an impressive and edible bowl that adds extra flavor.

With Extra Fresh Herbs

• Top each serving with additional fresh basil or parsley to enhance freshness and color.

As a Cold Salad

• Chill the leftovers and serve them cold for a refreshing pasta salad at your next picnic or potluck.

Alongside Grilled Vegetables

• Pair with additional grilled vegetables like bell peppers or asparagus for a colorful and nutritious plate.

How to Perfect Pesto Zucchini Orzo with Charred Sweet Corn

To ensure your Pesto Zucchini Orzo with Charred Sweet Corn shines, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh zucchini and corn will provide the best flavor and texture, enhancing the overall dish.
• Toast the orzo: Lightly toasting the orzo before adding broth adds a nutty depth to the final dish.
• Adjust seasoning: Always taste and adjust seasonings before serving, as this can make all the difference in flavor.
• Add lemon juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving can brighten up the flavors beautifully.
• Experiment with pesto: Try different types of pesto (like sun-dried tomato or arugula) for unique twists on this classic recipe.

Best Side Dishes for Pesto Zucchini Orzo with Charred Sweet Corn

Enhance your meal by pairing Pesto Zucchini Orzo with Charred Sweet Corn with these delicious side dishes.

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers – Marinated chicken skewers are easy to prepare and complement the flavors of the orzo perfectly.
2. Roasted Asparagus – Simple roasted asparagus sprinkled with salt and pepper adds crunch and vibrant color to your plate.
3. Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy orzo.
4. Garlic Bread – Crispy garlic bread serves as a great side that everyone loves, perfect for scooping up leftover sauce.
5. Cucumber Salad – A light cucumber salad dressed in vinegar enhances the overall freshness of your meal.
6. Grilled Shrimp – Quick-cooking grilled shrimp seasoned simply can add protein while keeping things light.
7. Spinach Salad – A simple spinach salad tossed with vinaigrette offers a healthy option alongside your rich main dish.
8. Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Crispy Brussels sprouts roasted until caramelized add depth and flavor balance to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Pesto Zucchini Orzo with Charred Sweet Corn, certain pitfalls can affect your dish. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the grilling step: Grilling zucchini and corn adds a smoky flavor that enhances the dish. If you skip this step, you might miss out on that essential taste.

• Overcooking the orzo: Cooking orzo for too long can make it mushy. Keep an eye on it and taste occasionally to ensure it’s perfectly al dente.

• Not seasoning adequately: Failing to season with salt and pepper can lead to bland flavors. Taste your dish before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed.

• Using low-quality pesto: The quality of pesto can significantly affect the dish’s flavor. Opt for a fresh homemade version or a high-quality store-bought option.

• Ignoring ingredient temperatures: Adding cold ingredients like cream directly from the fridge may cool down your dish. Allow them to come to room temperature for better mixing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Use within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Pesto Zucchini Orzo with Charred Sweet Corn

• Freeze in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Pesto Zucchini Orzo with Charred Sweet Corn

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and place orzo in a covered baking dish until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every minute until hot.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of broth or water and reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Pesto Zucchini Orzo with Charred Sweet Corn vegan?

You can easily make this recipe vegan by substituting the butter with olive oil and omitting the cheese or using a plant-based alternative.

Can I use another type of pasta instead of orzo?

Yes! While orzo is great for this dish, you can substitute it with any small pasta like ditalini or even gluten-free pasta.

What should I serve with Pesto Zucchini Orzo with Charred Sweet Corn?

This dish pairs well with grilled chicken, beef, or lamb. You could also serve it alongside a fresh salad for a lighter meal.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can grill the vegetables and cook the orzo ahead of time. Just combine everything when you’re ready to serve.

How do I store leftover Pesto Zucchini Orzo with Charred Sweet Corn?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Final Thoughts

Pesto Zucchini Orzo with Charred Sweet Corn is not only delicious but also versatile enough for various occasions. Its bright flavors make it perfect for summer gatherings, while its creamy texture complements grilled meats beautifully. Feel free to customize it by adding other seasonal vegetables or protein options!