Introduction
Orzo Carbonara with Crispy Prosciutto and Burrata is a luxurious twist on the classic Italian carbonara. This dish combines the creamy richness of a carbonara sauce with the delicate texture of orzo pasta, topped with crispy prosciutto and creamy burrata cheese. Fresh herbs like basil, thyme, and chives add a burst of flavor, while baby spinach provides a fresh, nutritious touch. Perfect for a quick yet sophisticated weeknight dinner, this recipe will impress with its depth of flavor and elegant presentation.
Ingredients
- 3 ounces prosciutto, torn
- 3 large eggs, at room temperature, beaten
- 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 clove garlic, grated
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (or 2 tablespoons dried basil)
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves (or 2 teaspoons dried thyme)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives (or 1 teaspoon onion powder)
- 1 pound dry orzo pasta (use gluten-free if needed)
- 2 tablespoons salted butter, at room temperature
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach, chopped (or 6 ounces frozen, thawed spinach)
- Kosher salt and black pepper to taste
- 8 ounces burrata or ricotta cheese, at room temperature
- Fresh herbs and/or microgreens, for serving
- Olive oil, for drizzling
Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Prosciutto
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the torn prosciutto in an even layer. Transfer to the oven and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the prosciutto is crisp. Remove from the oven and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Carbonara Sauce
In a large serving bowl, whisk together the beaten eggs, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, grated garlic, chopped basil, thyme leaves, and chopped chives until well combined. Set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Orzo
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook until al dente, following the package instructions. Before draining, scoop out about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water and set it aside. Drain the orzo.
Step 4: Combine the Orzo and Sauce
Immediately add the hot, drained orzo to the bowl with the egg and cheese mixture. Toss quickly to combine, ensuring the heat from the pasta thickens the eggs without scrambling them. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time, as needed, to reach your desired sauce consistency.
Step 5: Add Butter and Spinach
Gently fold in the room-temperature butter and chopped baby spinach until well combined. The heat from the orzo will wilt the spinach. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Step 6: Serve
Divide the orzo carbonara among serving plates. Top each portion with torn burrata or dollops of ricotta cheese, crispy prosciutto, and a sprinkling of fresh herbs or microgreens. Drizzle a bit of olive oil over the top for added richness. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Note
- Eggs: Ensure the eggs are at room temperature to help them mix smoothly into the hot pasta without curdling.
- Orzo: Cooking the orzo al dente helps maintain its texture when mixed with the sauce.
- Burrata/Ricotta: Using room-temperature cheese helps it melt slightly when added to the hot pasta.
Serving Suggestions
Orzo Carbonara pairs beautifully with:
- Salad: A simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette.
- Bread: Serve with a crusty baguette or garlic bread for dipping.
- Wine: Pair with a light white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: Chop the herbs and prepare the other ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.
- Avoid Scrambling Eggs: Toss the pasta quickly with the egg mixture to avoid scrambling the eggs.
- Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking.
Prep Time
- 10 minutes
Cook Time
- 10 minutes
Total Time
- 20 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: Approximately 450 kcal
- Protein: 18 grams
- Sodium: 750 milligrams
Conclusion
Orzo Carbonara with Crispy Prosciutto and Burrata is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings a touch of gourmet elegance to your home dining. The dish masterfully combines the creamy richness of a classic carbonara with the delicate texture of orzo pasta, creating a comforting yet sophisticated plate that is sure to delight the senses.
The crispy prosciutto provides a delightful contrast to the creamy orzo, adding a savory crunch that elevates the entire dish. Prosciutto, when baked to perfection, delivers a burst of umami that complements the subtle flavors of the carbonara sauce. Each bite offers a mix of creamy, crunchy, and chewy textures that keep your palate intrigued.
The use of fresh herbs like basil, thyme, and chives infuses the dish with a vibrant, aromatic quality. These herbs not only enhance the flavor profile but also add a touch of freshness that balances the richness of the sauce. The grated garlic in the egg mixture adds a subtle yet impactful depth of flavor, making each mouthful more complex and satisfying.
The addition of baby spinach brings a nutritious element to the dish without overpowering the delicate flavors of the carbonara. Spinach wilts perfectly into the hot orzo, adding a slight earthy note and a pop of color that makes the dish visually appealing.
Topping the orzo carbonara with creamy burrata or ricotta cheese takes the dish to another level of indulgence. The burrata, with its creamy interior, melts slightly over the hot pasta, creating a luxurious texture that is both rich and smooth. This addition makes the dish feel special and indulgent, perfect for occasions when you want to treat yourself or impress guests.
The flexibility of this recipe allows it to shine in various settings. It can be a quick yet elegant weeknight dinner or the centerpiece of a dinner party that leaves guests raving. The preparation is straightforward and efficient, ensuring you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal.
Furthermore, Orzo Carbonara with Crispy Prosciutto and Burrata is a testament to the beauty of simple, high-quality ingredients coming together to create something extraordinary. The orzo absorbs the flavors of the sauce beautifully, the prosciutto adds a sophisticated crunch, and the burrata provides a creamy finish that ties everything together.
This dish also encourages creativity in the kitchen. Feel free to experiment with different herbs or add your favorite vegetables to make it your own. The basic recipe is versatile enough to accommodate various dietary preferences and ingredient availability, making it a reliable go-to in your recipe repertoire.
In essence, Orzo Carbonara with Crispy Prosciutto and Burrata is a celebration of flavors and textures that embodies the joy of cooking and dining well. It offers a perfect balance of comfort and sophistication, making every meal feel special. Whether you are cooking for yourself, your family, or friends, this dish promises to deliver a memorable culinary experience that highlights the pleasure of homemade gourmet food.
Embrace the satisfaction of creating a restaurant-quality dish at home, savor each bite, and enjoy the compliments that are sure to follow. This Orzo Carbonara is not just a meal; it’s a delightful journey through flavors that captures the essence of indulgent home cooking.