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Creamy Spinach Orzo Recipe with Parmesan Cheese

Creamy Spinach Orzo - featured image
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A comforting and creamy dish featuring tender orzo, fresh spinach, and nutty Parmesan cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights or as a crowd-pleasing side dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (200g) orzo
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 cups (90g) fresh baby spinach, washed and roughly chopped
  • 2 ½ cups (600ml) chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian option)
  • ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter version)
  • ½ cup (50g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: red pepper flakes for heat
  • Optional: squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness

Instructions

  1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt 2 tablespoons of butter.
  2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
  3. Stir in 1 cup (200g) of orzo and toast it lightly in the butter for 2-3 minutes until golden and nutty.
  4. Pour in 2 ½ cups (600ml) of chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir occasionally and cook for about 8-10 minutes until the orzo is tender.
  5. Once the orzo has absorbed most of the liquid, reduce the heat and stir in ½ cup (120ml) of heavy cream.
  6. Add 3 cups (90g) of chopped fresh spinach and stir until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
  7. Finish the dish by stirring in ½ cup (50g) of freshly grated Parmesan cheese until creamy and fully combined.
  8. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Optionally, sprinkle with red pepper flakes for a little kick.
  9. Serve immediately while warm and enjoy!

Notes

Toast the orzo in butter for a nutty flavor. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Adjust consistency with more cream or broth if needed. Taste before adding extra salt as Parmesan is naturally salty.

Nutrition

Keywords: Creamy Spinach Orzo, Parmesan Cheese, Comfort Food, Easy Dinner, Quick Recipe, Vegetarian Option, Weeknight Meal

Find it online: https://wigglebite.com/creamy-spinach-orzo-recipe-with-parmesan-cheese/