Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Sautéed Garlic Spinach and Orzo


  • Author: Avery
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Sautéed Garlic Spinach and Orzo is a simple yet elegant dish bursting with flavor. Tender orzo is tossed with garlicky sautéed spinach and finished with a bright touch of lemon and optional Parmesan. It’s light, fresh, and comforting all at once perfect as a side dish or a quick vegetarian main course.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces orzo pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 10 ounces fresh spinach
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add orzo and cook according to package instructions (about 8–10 minutes) until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden—do not let it burn.
  3. Add fresh spinach to the skillet. Cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring until wilted and tender.
  4. Stir in the cooked orzo. Season with salt, pepper, and fresh lemon juice. Mix until everything is well combined.
  5. Optional: Top with Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes. Serve warm.

Notes

  • Add cooked chickpeas or white beans for added protein.
  • Use baby spinach for quicker wilting and a milder taste.
  • Leftovers can be enjoyed cold as a pasta salad!
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish or Light Main
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (approx.)
  • Calories: 320 kcal
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 180mg
  • Fat: 11g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 9g
  • Cholesterol: 3mg

Keywords: spinach orzo, garlic spinach, sautéed spinach pasta