Orzo with Spinach and Parmesan (20 Minutes)

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With its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, this spinach and parmesan orzo is ideal for those busy weeknights or when you need something light yet satisfying. The perfectly cooked orzo combined with tender fresh spinach and the salty allure of Parmesan offers a delightful culinary experience. This dish not only stands strong as a main but can also be a complement to your favorite protein. It’s perfect for those seeking both convenience and taste!

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 cup orzo
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Zest of 1 lemon (optional)
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Orzo (8-10 minutes): In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Sauté Garlic and Spinach (5 minutes): In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Toss in the chopped spinach and cook until wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  3. Combine Orzo and Spinach (2 minutes): Add the drained orzo to the skillet, mixing it well with the spinach and garlic.
  4. Add Parmesan and Serve (2 minutes): Remove from heat. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until the orzo is well coated. If desired, add lemon zest and fresh parsley for an added burst of flavor and color.
  5. Serve (2 minutes): Dish out the orzo onto plates or a serving bowl, garnishing with additional Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh parsley if you like. Pair with a protein of your choice or enjoy on its own.

Notes

This dish is versatile, so feel free to mix in other veggies like sun-dried tomatoes or sautéed mushrooms for extra depth of flavor. For a richer taste, a splash of heavy cream can be added right before the Parmesan. If you’re looking to make this dish a full meal, grilled chicken or shrimp pairs wonderfully with the flavors. Enjoy!

*Please keep in mind that the following nutritional information is based on estimates and can vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients used.

Nutrition

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