Description
This Easy Orzo Pasta with Mushrooms & Spinach is a comforting and flavorful dish that is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. The combination of tender orzo pasta, earthy mushrooms, and vibrant spinach, all cooked in a savory broth and finished with Parmesan cheese and a hint of lemon, creates a satisfying and delicious meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Orzo Pasta:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 8 ounces cremini or white mushrooms (sliced)
- 4 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1/2 cup vegetable broth or water
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil: In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté onion and garlic until fragrant.
- Add mushrooms: Cook until golden.
- Toast orzo: Stir in orzo and toast briefly.
- Add broth: Pour in vegetable broth, simmer until orzo is tender.
- Incorporate spinach: Stir in spinach until wilted.
- Finish the dish: Remove from heat, mix in Parmesan, season with salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, and lemon juice. Garnish with parsley.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of cream or butter at the end.
- Enhance with toasted pine nuts or walnuts for added texture.
- Pair with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish, Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Mediterranean-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 320 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 5 mg
