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Creamy Spinach Parmesan Orzo Recipe

Creamy Spinach Parmesan Orzo Recipe
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★★★★★

4.9 from 21 reviews

A rich and creamy spinach Parmesan orzo recipe that combines tender orzo pasta with fresh spinach, garlic, and a luscious Parmesan cream sauce. This comforting dish is easy to prepare and perfect as a side or a light main course, offering a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.

Ingredients

Scale

Orzo and Vegetables

  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped

Liquids and Dairy

  • 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • ½ cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
  • ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Seasonings

  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • ¼ tsp chili flakes (optional)
  • Salt to taste

Optional Add-Ins

  • Extra Parmesan cheese
  • Lemon zest
  • Fresh basil

Instructions

  1. Heat Olive Oil or Butter: Warm the olive oil or butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat until melted and shimmering.
  2. Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 to 60 seconds until fragrant but not browned to release its aroma.
  3. Toast Orzo: Stir in the orzo pasta and toast it for about 1 minute to enhance its nutty flavor.
  4. Add Broth and Simmer: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, bring the mixture to a simmer, and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender but still retains a slight bite.
  5. Wilt Spinach: Add the chopped spinach and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until the spinach is wilted and well incorporated.
  6. Create Creamy Sauce: Reduce the heat to low, then stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, black pepper, and salt. Mix until the sauce is smooth, creamy, and fully combined.
  7. Customize Flavors: If desired, add chili flakes for a hint of spice, lemon zest for brightness, or extra Parmesan cheese for added richness.
  8. Serve Warm: Dish the creamy spinach Parmesan orzo warm, as a satisfying side dish or a light main course.

Notes

  • For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative.
  • Use vegetable broth to make the dish vegetarian.
  • Fresh spinach can be replaced with baby spinach or kale for a different texture.
  • Toast the orzo carefully to avoid burning; it adds an enhanced flavor.
  • Adjust seasoning to taste, especially salt and pepper.
  • Optional add-ins like lemon zest and fresh basil brighten and add fresh notes to the dish.

Nutrition

Keywords: creamy spinach orzo, Parmesan orzo, easy Italian side dish, creamy pasta, spinach recipes, quick dinner, vegetarian pasta

Find it online: https://maicook.com/creamy-spinach-parmesan-orzo-recipe/