Description
Indulge in the creamy, comforting flavors of Spinach Parmesan Orzo—a quick and easy dish that brings together tender orzo, fresh spinach, and rich Parmesan in a velvety sauce. Perfect as a side or a light main course, this dish is packed with flavor and comes together in just 25 minutes!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the chopped spinach and cook for 3-4 minutes until wilted.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in the cooked orzo and Parmesan cheese, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Mix until the cheese melts and the orzo becomes creamy.
- Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, swap vegetable broth with chicken broth if preferred.
- Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat boost.
- Swap Parmesan with Pecorino Romano for a sharper, saltier bite.
- Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish, Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 310mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: Spinach Parmesan Orzo, Creamy Orzo, Spinach and Parmesan Pasta, Easy Pasta Recipe, Vegetarian Orzo