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Spinach and Mushroom Orzo Recipe

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4.3 from 42 reviews

  • Author: Chef
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 2-3 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A simple and flavorful Mediterranean dish combining tender orzo pasta with sautéed mushrooms, fresh spinach, and a light, savory sauce featuring garlic and Parmesan cheese. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect as a side or a light main meal, delivering a delightful balance of textures and rich flavors.

Ingredients

Orzo and Pasta

  • 1 cup orzo

Vegetables

  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Other Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt, to taste
  • Pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook Orzo: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until tender. Drain the orzo well and set aside.
  2. Sauté Garlic and Mushrooms: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms, sautéing for about 5 minutes or until the mushrooms are soft and browned and the garlic is fragrant.
  3. Wilt Spinach: Add the fresh spinach to the skillet with the mushrooms and garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the spinach has wilted and reduced in volume.
  4. Combine Orzo and Vegetables: Add the cooked orzo to the skillet and mix thoroughly to combine all the ingredients well, ensuring the orzo is heated through.
  5. Add Cheese and Season: Stir in 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese to the mixture. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your taste. Mix well until the cheese melts slightly into the pasta.
  6. Serve Warm: Remove from heat and serve immediately, either as a side dish or a light main course.

Notes

  • For a creamier consistency, add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half along with the Parmesan cheese.
  • Substitute water with vegetable broth to infuse more flavor into the orzo while cooking.
  • Top with toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts for added texture and a nutty crunch.
  • Freshly ground black pepper and extra Parmesan can be added at the table to adjust seasoning.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Find it online: https://kitchenmartha.com/spinach-and-mushroom-orzo-recipe/