Creamy Spinach Orzo Recipe

Introduction

Creamy Spinach Orzo is a comforting and quick side dish that combines tender orzo pasta with fresh spinach and a rich, creamy sauce. It’s perfect for a simple weeknight meal or as a flavorful accompaniment to your favorite main courses.

Ingredients

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: Cook the orzo according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Step 2: In a large pan over medium heat, add the cooked orzo, fresh spinach, and heavy cream. Stir gently until the spinach wilts and the cream thickens slightly.
3. Step 3: Remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, sauté some minced garlic in the pan before adding the orzo and spinach.
• Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.
• Add a squeeze of lemon juice or a pinch of nutmeg to brighten the dish.
• For a protein boost, stir in cooked chicken or crispy bacon.

Storage

Store leftover creamy spinach orzo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk to restore creaminess if needed.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Be sure to thaw and drain it well before adding to avoid excess moisture in the dish.

How do I make this dish vegan?

Replace heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative and use vegan Parmesan or nutritional yeast for a similar flavor.

Creamy Spinach Orzo Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.6 from 133 reviews

A quick and creamy Spinach Orzo recipe combining tender spinach, rich cream, and savory Parmesan cheese stirred into perfectly cooked orzo pasta for a comforting side or light main dish.

• Author: Lara
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Ingredients

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the Orzo: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté Spinach: While the orzo cooks, heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped spinach and cook, stirring frequently, until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add Cream: Lower heat and pour in the heavy cream to the skillet with the spinach. Stir gently and allow the cream to warm through for 1-2 minutes without boiling.
4. Combine Orzo and Spinach Cream: Add the drained orzo to the skillet, stirring to fully combine and coat the pasta with the creamy spinach mixture.
5. Add Parmesan: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well incorporated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve: Serve warm immediately as a creamy, flavorful side dish or light vegetarian main course.

Notes

• Use fresh spinach for best flavor, but baby spinach can be substituted.
• For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative.
• Parmesan cheese can be adjusted to taste or replaced with Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor.
• Optional: Add sautéed garlic or onions for extra depth of flavor.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid separating cream.

Keywords: Orzo, Spinach, Creamy Pasta, Parmesan, Vegetarian, Italian Side Dish