Tasty Spinach Orzo
Packed with vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients, Tasty Spinach Orzo is a quick and satisfying dish perfect for weeknight dinners or a light lunch. This creamy orzo pasta is prepared with tender baby spinach, zesty lemon juice, and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, creating a delightful balance of fresh and savory flavors. The dish is brought to life with aromatic garlic and a touch of optional red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. Ready in just 30 minutes, this one-pan recipe is both easy to make and nutrient-packed, making it a go-to option for busy families. Whether served as a hearty vegetarian main or a flavorful side, this spinach orzo recipe is guaranteed to impress.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1.5 cups orzo pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 units garlic cloves, minced
- 6 cups baby spinach
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 cups water or vegetable broth
- 0.25 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
Bring 3 cups of water or vegetable broth to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add the orzo pasta and a pinch of salt, then cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
Add the baby spinach to the skillet and cook, stirring frequently, until wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
Stir in the cooked orzo, lemon zest, and lemon juice into the skillet with the spinach. Mix well to combine.
Reduce the heat to low and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the orzo mixture. Stir until the cheese is melted and evenly distributed.
Season the dish with salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes to taste. Mix well.
Remove from heat and serve warm. Optionally, garnish with extra Parmesan cheese or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for added brightness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
387 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 11.2 g | 14% | |
| Saturated Fat | 3.3 g | 17% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 10 mg | 3% | |
| Sodium | 698 mg | 30% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 59.8 g | 22% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 4.0 g | 14% | |
| Total Sugars | 1.7 g | ||
| Protein | 14.9 g | 30% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 177 mg | 14% | |
| Iron | 3.3 mg | 18% | |
| Potassium | 122 mg | 3% | |
*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.
