Introduction:
This One-Pot Spinach Orzo with Parmesan is a creamy, comforting dish that’s bursting with flavor! Made in just one pot, it’s the perfect quick and easy weeknight meal. The tender orzo pasta, savory onions, garlic, fresh spinach, and Parmesan come together to create a deliciously satisfying dish that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add orzo pasta and stir to coat with oil.
- Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes until orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Stir in chopped spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted.
- Remove from heat, add Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes (if using), and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley.
Variations:
- Cheesy Mushroom Orzo: Add 1 cup of sliced mushrooms with the onions and sauté until tender before adding the orzo. This adds an earthy flavor and a bit more texture to the dish.
- Creamy Chicken Spinach Orzo: Stir in 2 cups of cooked, shredded chicken just before adding the Parmesan. This turns the dish into a heartier, protein-packed meal.
- Lemon Herb Spinach Orzo: Add the zest and juice of one lemon along with a tablespoon of chopped fresh herbs (like thyme or basil) to brighten up the flavors and give the dish a fresh, citrusy twist.
Cooking Notes:
- For a richer flavor, use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice for a bright, zesty finish.
- Substitute kale for spinach if desired.
Serving Suggestions:
- With Grilled Chicken: Serve alongside juicy grilled chicken breasts to make a more complete and balanced meal. The smoky flavor of the chicken pairs well with the creamy orzo.
- As a Side Dish: This orzo works wonderfully as a side for roasted meats like beef or lamb. The creamy, cheesy texture balances well with hearty, savory dishes.
- Topped with Toasted Pine Nuts: Sprinkle a handful of toasted pine nuts on top before serving. Their crunch and slight buttery flavor add a delightful contrast to the creamy orzo.
Tips:
- Pre-Cook Spinach: If you’re using frozen spinach, make sure to thaw and squeeze out excess water before adding it to the dish. This prevents the orzo from becoming watery.
- Grate Your Own Parmesan: For the best flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan rather than pre-shredded. It melts better and adds a richer taste.
- Season Gradually: Taste as you go and season gradually with salt and pepper. Parmesan cheese can be quite salty, so it’s best to adjust the seasoning after adding it to avoid over-salting.
Prep Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Protein: 10 g
- Sodium: 780 mg
Frequently Asked Questions:
-
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Thaw and squeeze out excess water before adding to avoid watering down the dish. -
What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
Pecorino Romano or Asiago are great substitutes, offering a similarly sharp and salty flavor. -
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Substitute the orzo with gluten-free pasta or rice. Adjust the cooking time as needed to accommodate the different textures. -
How can I make it vegan?
Replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast and ensure the broth is vegetable-based for a fully vegan dish.
Conclusion:
One-Pot Spinach Orzo with Parmesan is a versatile and comforting dish that comes together quickly and easily. Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight dinner or a side to impress your guests, this creamy orzo will not disappoint. Feel free to get creative with add-ins or toppings to suit your taste!
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One-Pot Spinach Orzo with Parmesan
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This One-Pot Spinach Orzo with Parmesan is a creamy, comforting dish that’s bursting with flavor! Made in just one pot, it’s the perfect quick and easy weeknight meal. The tender orzo pasta, savory onions, garlic, fresh spinach, and Parmesan come together to create a deliciously satisfying dish that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add orzo pasta and stir to coat with oil.
- Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes until orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Stir in chopped spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted.
- Remove from heat, add Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes (if using), and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice for a bright, zesty finish.
- Substitute kale for spinach if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: One-Pot
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 780 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 42 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 10 g
- Cholesterol: 12 mg
Keywords: One-Pot Spinach Orzo, Creamy Spinach Orzo, Parmesan Orzo, Easy Weeknight Dinner