Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.

Drain the orzo in a colander and set aside.

In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Add the lemon juice, zest, and cooked orzo to the skillet. Toss to combine.

Stir in the chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Serve the lemon garlic orzo warm, garnished with additional parsley and Parmesan if desired.