Orzo with Wilted Spinach
Elevate your side dish game with this vibrant and flavorful Orzo with Wilted Spinach recipe! Perfectly cooked orzo pasta is tossed with tender baby spinach, garlic-infused olive oil, and a zesty touch of lemon, creating a light yet satisfying dish. A generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese adds rich, creamy depth, while optional red pepper flakes provide a subtle kick of heat. This one-pan wonder comes together in just 25 minutes, making it an ideal weeknight dinner or an elegant accompaniment to grilled meat or fish. Packed with fresh, wholesome ingredients and bursting with Mediterranean-inspired flavors, this comforting and versatile recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 4 cups baby spinach
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.25 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken or vegetable broth to a boil over medium-high heat.
Add the orzo to the boiling broth and cook according to the package instructions, typically about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
While the orzo is cooking, mince the garlic.
In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil.
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Stir in the baby spinach to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, tossing gently, until the spinach is wilted.
Once the orzo is cooked, drain any excess liquid and add the orzo to the skillet with the wilted spinach. Toss to combine.
Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper. If desired, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for some heat.
Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, ensuring everything is well combined and heated through.
Remove from heat and serve immediately. Optionally, top with additional Parmesan cheese for garnish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
337 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 14.0 g | 18% | |
| Saturated Fat | 5.1 g | 26% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 22 mg | 7% | |
| Sodium | 1036 mg | 45% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 40.2 g | 15% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.8 g | 10% | |
| Total Sugars | 1.6 g | ||
| Protein | 16.1 g | 32% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 267 mg | 21% | |
| Iron | 2.1 mg | 12% | |
| Potassium | 94 mg | 2% | |
*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.
