Creamy Spinach Orzo Recipe
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.
- 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
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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
Find it online: https://familyfavplates.com/creamy-spinach-orzo-recipe/
