Step 1

Begin by adding coconut milk to a large pot with 4 cups of water. Bring this mixture to a boil. Add orzo and a big pinch of salt, stir, and let cook until al dente (6-7 minutes for regular pasta). Drain and set aside without rinsing*.

Step 2

While orzo is boiling, heat butter in a cast iron skillet over medium low. Add garlic and stir until foamy, about 1 minute. Add orzo on top of garlic butter and spread to coat the entire bottom of the pan, going up the sides as needed. Pack down a bit with the back of your spoon, creating as even of a layer as possible. Cook, undisturbed for 5 minutes. This is when the majority of the crisping happens.

Step 3

Lift up a bit of the rice to check for browning. Add olive oil, peas, and parmesan. Stir orzo so that the opposite side can begin crisping. Let cook for at least 4 more minutes, until browned throughout but not burnt.

Step 4

Remove from heat and toss in fresh parsley, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Serve hot.