Updated on January 25, 2026
This creamy lemon broccoli orzo is a cozy one-pot vegan dinner that feels both comforting and fresh. Tiny pasta simmers directly in vegetable broth until tender, then gets tossed with steamed broccoli, lemon zest, and a silky, dairy-free “cream” made from pasta starch and a touch of plant-based milk. It’s bright, satisfying, and ready in about 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights when you want easy weeknight meals without any heavy cream or cheese.
Creamy Lemon Broccoli Orzo (Vegan, One-Pot)
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium shallot, finely chopped or 1/2 small yellow onion
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 12 oz (340 g) dry orzo use GF orzo if needed
- 3 ½ cups (830 ml) low-sodium vegetable broth warm or room temp
- ¾ cup (180 ml) unsweetened oat cream or 2/3 cup full-fat coconut milk
- 3 cups (250 g) small broccoli florets bite-size
- 1 tsp fine sea salt plus more to taste
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes optional, to taste
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs or dried oregano
- zest of 1 lemon about 1 tsp zest
- 2–3 tbsp fresh lemon juice to taste
- 3 tbsp nutritional yeast cheesy, savory finish
- 1 tbsp vegan butter optional, for glossy finish
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or basil, for garnish
- water as needed to loosen at the end
Equipment
- 1 Large sauté pan or wide pot with lid (11–12 in / 28–30 cm) Wide surface helps orzo cook evenly.
- 1 Wooden spoon For stirring frequently.
- 1 Microplane/zester For lemon zest.
- 1 Measuring cups & spoons
- 1 Chef’s knife
- 1 Cutting board
Instructions
- Warm olive oil over medium heat. Add shallot and cook 2–3 minutes until translucent. Stir in garlic; cook 30 seconds until fragrant.1 tbsp olive oil, 3 cloves garlic, minced, 1 medium shallot, finely chopped
- Add orzo; toast 1 minute, stirring constantly.12 oz (340 g) dry orzo
- Pour in vegetable broth, add salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, and Italian herbs. Bring to a lively simmer. Cook uncovered 6 minutes, stirring every 30–45 seconds so orzo doesn’t stick.3 1/2 cups (830 ml) low-sodium vegetable broth, 1 tsp fine sea salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes, 1 tsp dried Italian herbs
- Stir in broccoli florets and oat cream. Continue simmering 3–4 minutes, stirring often, until broccoli is tender-crisp and orzo is al dente with a creamy sauce.3 cups (250 g) small broccoli florets, 3/4 cup (180 ml) unsweetened oat cream
- Off heat, fold in lemon zest, 2 tbsp lemon juice, nutritional yeast, and vegan butter (if using). Rest 1 minute to thicken; add a splash of water if too thick. Taste and add more lemon juice or salt. Garnish withzest of 1 lemon, 2–3 tbsp fresh lemon juice, 3 tbsp nutritional yeast, 1 tbsp vegan butter, 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, water
Nutrition per serving (estimated)
Notes
- Sauce too thick? Stir in hot water or broth, 1–2 tbsp at a time. Too thin? Simmer 1–2 minutes more.
- Cream options: unsweetened oat cream for neutral taste; coconut milk for richer body.
- Add-ins: peas or spinach (last 1–2 min); capers for briny pops.
- Gluten-free: use GF orzo; start checking doneness 1–2 minutes earlier.
- Storage: 3 days in the fridge; reheat gently with a splash of water.
Private Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!If you enjoy simple, comforting dinners like this one, you might also love our creamy garlic mushroom pasta or explore more quick weeknight dinner ideas for busy evenings.
Creamy Lemon Broccoli Orzo – FAQ
Is orzo vegan?
Yes, most dry orzo is just wheat flour and water. Check the label to avoid egg-based pasta.
How do I keep the orzo creamy, not gummy?
Cook it just to al dente and stir often, adding hot stock as needed. If it thickens, loosen with a splash of hot water or broth.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free orzo (or small GF pasta) and monitor liquid; GF pasta can absorb a bit more.
What can I use instead of nutritional yeast?
Try finely grated vegan Parmesan, a spoon of white miso, or a quick cashew cream for umami richness.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes. Add it in the last few minutes straight from frozen and cook until bright and tender.
How should I reheat leftovers?
Orzo continues to absorb sauce. Rewarm gently with a splash of water or broth and finish with fresh lemon to revive the brightness.
I don’t want coconut, what’s a good dairy-free base?
Oat cream, unsweetened almond milk thickened slightly, or cashew cream all work well; adjust salt and lemon to taste.
If you enjoy cozy vegan bowls like this, try our Smoky Chickpea & Spinach Stew for another 30-minute one-pot dinner, or One-Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta (Vegan) when you’re craving a tomato-based sauce with the same simple, comforting vibe.
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Plan to make this for dinner, just wanted to thank you for the brilliant move of putting the measurements with the instructions…genius!!
Thank you so much for the kind words, that truly means a lot! 😊
I’m really glad you found the measurements inside the instructions helpful. Little details like that are exactly what I focus on to make cooking smoother and more enjoyable.
I hope you love this creamy lemon broccoli orzo.