If you’re looking for a quick and delicious weeknight meal, Spinach Mushroom Orzo is the perfect choice. This dish is creamy, full of flavor, and incredibly satisfying. With tender orzo, earthy mushrooms, and nutritious spinach, it’s a comforting one-pot recipe that can be whipped up in under 30 minutes. Plus, it makes a great side dish or a main course for vegetarians. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Ingredients
- 1 cup (200g) orzo pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 8 oz (225g) cremini or button mushrooms, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Juice of half a lemon
Instructions
- Cook the Orzo: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. Once the butter has melted, add the orzo and toast it for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally until it becomes lightly golden.
- Cook the Mushrooms: Push the orzo to one side of the skillet and add the remaining tablespoon of butter. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 4-5 minutes, until they release their moisture and become golden brown. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
- Add the Broth: Stir the orzo and mushrooms together and pour in the vegetable broth. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the broth.
- Add Spinach and Cream: Stir in the fresh spinach and let it wilt. If using, add the heavy cream for extra creaminess. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the spinach is wilted and the mixture is creamy.
- Finish with Cheese and Lemon: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Serve: Serve the Spinach Mushroom Orzo warm as a main dish or a side. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Toasting the Orzo: Toasting the orzo before adding the broth gives it a slightly nutty flavor and helps prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Vegetable Broth: If you prefer a richer flavor, you can substitute vegetable broth with chicken broth if you’re not strictly vegetarian.
- Heavy Cream: Adding heavy cream is optional, but it makes the dish creamier. You can also use half-and-half or omit it altogether for a lighter version.
Variations
- Add Protein: For a more filling meal, add cooked chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to the dish.
- Cheese Alternatives: Swap out the Parmesan for crumbled feta or goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
- Extra Vegetables: Feel free to add more vegetables such as sun-dried tomatoes, bell peppers, or zucchini for added texture and nutrition.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use another type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute orzo with another small pasta like ditalini or acini di pepe. However, the cooking time may vary, so adjust as needed.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to bring back the creaminess.
3. Can I make this dish vegan?
Absolutely! To make it vegan, use a vegan butter substitute, omit the Parmesan cheese, and use a dairy-free cream or coconut milk.
4. What can I serve with Spinach Mushroom Orzo?
This dish pairs well with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. It also works well as a side for grilled meats or fish.
Spinach Mushroom Orzo is a fantastic dish that combines simple ingredients into a delicious and comforting meal. It’s easy to make, versatile, and packed with flavors that everyone will love. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or enjoying it as a hearty vegetarian main, this orzo recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Try it out for your next family dinner, and watch it quickly become a favorite!
