Two-Cheese Orzo with Cauliflower

Step 1

In a large Dutch oven over medium, heat the oil until shimmering. Add the shallot, garlic and ½ teaspoon salt; cook, stirring, until starting to brown, about 1 minute. Add the cauliflower and cook, stirring, until lightly browned in spots, 4 to 5 minutes. Add the orzo and cook, stirring, until beginning to brown, about 2 minutes. Stir in 2 cups of the broth and ½ teaspoon pepper; bring to a simmer over medium-high. Cook, uncovered and stirring, until the liquid is absorbed, about 5 minutes. Add 1½ cups of the remaining broth and simmer, stirring, until the liquid is again absorbed, the orzo is al dente and the cauliflower is tender-crisp, about 5 minutes.

Step 2

Stir in the remaining ¼ cup broth. Add the cheddar; stir until melted. Remove the pot from the heat. If the “orzotto” is dry and thick, stir in additional broth a few tablespoons at a time to reach the desired consistency. Stir in the lemon zest and juice, Parmesan and half of the parsley. Taste and season with salt and pepper. Serve sprinkled with the remaining parsley and additional Parmesan.