Creamy Orzo and Spinach
Dive into pure comfort with this Creamy Orzo and Spinach recipe, a one-pan wonder that’s perfect for busy weeknights or elegant dinner parties. Tender orzo pasta is cooked directly in rich vegetable broth, soaking up every bit of flavor, before being swirled with velvety heavy cream, fresh baby spinach, and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. The golden sautéed onions, fragrant garlic, and a pop of bright lemon zest elevate this dish into a symphony of creamy and savory notes. Minimal prep and cook time make it a quick yet satisfying option, while its luxurious texture and vibrant colors make it feel indulgent. Serve it warm as a hearty vegetarian main course or a versatile side dish your guests won’t forget!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 0.5 cup heavy cream
- 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 cups baby spinach leaves, roughly chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Heat a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat and add the olive oil and butter.
Once the butter is melted, add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the uncooked orzo to the pan and toast it for 2-3 minutes, stirring often, until lightly golden.
Pour in the vegetable broth, stirring to combine, and bring the mixture to a simmer.
Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pan, and let the orzo cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the liquid is mostly absorbed and the orzo is tender.
Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and chopped spinach. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the spinach is wilted and the mixture is creamy.
Season with salt, black pepper, and lemon zest, stirring to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Serve warm as a comforting main dish or a flavorful side. Enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
470 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 24.7 g | 32% | |
| Saturated Fat | 11.3 g | 56% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 48 mg | 16% | |
| Sodium | 973 mg | 42% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 49.2 g | 18% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 4.4 g | 16% | |
| Total Sugars | 3.8 g | ||
| Protein | 13.7 g | 27% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 178 mg | 14% | |
| Iron | 2.7 mg | 15% | |
| Potassium | 505 mg | 11% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
