Spinach Mushroom Orzo

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Spinach Mushroom Orzo is an easy-to-make, hearty dish that offers a wonderful balance of flavors and textures. The mushrooms add a savory depth, while the spinach gives the dish a fresh and slightly earthy taste. The orzo pasta acts as a perfect base, soaking up all the delicious flavors of the sautéed vegetables and garlic. It’s light, comforting, and packed with nutrients, making it a great choice for vegetarians or anyone looking for a flavorful, healthy meal.

Ingredients

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cups fresh mushrooms, sliced (button, cremini, or any variety)
• 2 cups fresh spinach, washed and chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup vegetable broth or water
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)
• Fresh herbs (such as parsley or basil), for garnish (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the orzo: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually for 7-9 minutes, until al dente. Drain the orzo and set it aside.

2. Sauté the mushrooms: While the orzo is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re browned and softened.

3. Add garlic and seasoning: Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the mushrooms and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Stir in the dried thyme, salt, and pepper to taste.

4. Add the spinach: Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until it wilts down and becomes tender.

5. Combine orzo and vegetables: Add the cooked orzo to the skillet with the mushroom and spinach mixture. Pour in the vegetable broth (or water) and stir to combine. Let everything simmer together for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

6. Finish and serve: Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve the Spinach Mushroom Orzo with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs for garnish, if desired.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4 as a side dish or 2-3 as a main dish.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
• Total Time: 25-30 minutes

Variations

• Add protein: Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a more substantial meal.
• Creamy version: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a few tablespoons of cream cheese to make the dish creamy and rich.
• Add nuts: Toasted pine nuts, walnuts, or almonds can be sprinkled on top for extra crunch and flavor.
• Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to spice things up.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the orzo in a skillet over medium heat, adding a bit more vegetable broth or water if needed to loosen it up. You can also microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta instead of orzo?

Yes, you can substitute orzo with other small pasta shapes like ditalini, farfalle, or fusilli, but orzo gives the dish a unique texture.

2. Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Make sure to thaw it and drain any excess water before adding it to the dish.

3. Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes! Simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a plant-based alternative to make this dish vegan-friendly.

4. Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! You can add other vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or peas to make it even more colorful and nutritious.

5. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time and store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, just reheat it in a skillet or microwave, adding a bit more broth or water to refresh the texture.

6. How do I store leftover orzo?

Store leftover orzo in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s best to eat it within that time for the best flavor and texture.

7. Can I use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder?

Yes, fresh garlic is the best option for this recipe as it adds a more robust and fresh flavor.

8. Can I make this dish spicy?

Yes, you can add red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or even a chopped jalapeño to give it a spicy kick.

9. Can I use a different type of mushroom?

Absolutely! You can use cremini, shiitake, or portobello mushrooms depending on your preference.

10. Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, if you use gluten-free orzo or another gluten-free pasta, this recipe can easily be made gluten-free.

Conclusion

Spinach Mushroom Orzo is a light yet hearty dish that combines the earthiness of mushrooms with the freshness of spinach, all nestled in tender orzo pasta. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, this dish is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or as a delicious side dish for any occasion. Its versatility and ease of preparation make it a great go-to meal that everyone will love!

---

Print