Creamy Spinach Orzo Delight
This creamy Spinach Orzo Delight brings together the wholesome goodness of vegetables and pasta, creating a dish that's both nutritious and satisfying. The combination of tender orzo pasta and vibrant, fresh spinach is balanced by the aromatic garlic and sweetness of carrots. With a sprinkle of parmesan and fresh basil, every bite is a celebration of flavor. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a delightful side dish, this recipe is customizable and can easily accommodate frozen spinach for added convenience!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
Butter or Margarine
1 teaspoon (Melted)
Garlic Cloves
3 (Finely chopped)
Carrot
1/2 cup (Coarsely shredded (about 1 small carrot))
Onion
1/2 cup (Chopped)
Low Sodium Chicken Broth
2 cups (Liquid)
Uncooked Orzo Pasta
1 cup (Dry (about 6 ounces))
Fresh Spinach
1 1/2 cups (Thinly sliced)
Grated Parmesan Cheese
2 tablespoons (Freshly grated)
Fresh Basil
1 tablespoon (Chopped (or 1 teaspoon of dried basil))
Salt
to taste
Black Pepper
to taste
Instructions
1
In a 3-quart saucepan, melt the butter or margarine over medium heat. Add the finely chopped garlic, onion, and carrot, and sauté for about 2 minutes or until the vegetables are soft and fragrant.
2
Pour in the low sodium chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
3
Once boiling, stir in the uncooked orzo pasta and sliced fresh spinach. Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for 15 to 20 minutes. Stir occasionally, ensuring the orzo absorbs the broth and cooks evenly.
4
When the orzo is tender and most of the broth has been absorbed, remove from heat. Stir in the salt, pepper, grated parmesan cheese, and chopped fresh basil, mixing until well combined. Taste and adjust seasonings as desired.
5
Serve hot and enjoy your Creamy Spinach Orzo Delight!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Spinach Orzo Delight?
Creamy Spinach Orzo Delight is a nutritious pasta dish that combines tender orzo with fresh spinach, carrots, and aromatic garlic in a savory broth finished with parmesan cheese.
How long does it take to cook this dish?
The preparation takes about 5-10 minutes, and the cooking time is approximately 15 to 20 minutes for simmering.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
The recipe as written uses chicken broth, but it can easily be made vegetarian by substituting it with low-sodium vegetable broth.
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach; however, make sure to thaw it and squeeze out the excess moisture before adding it to the pot.
What can I substitute for orzo pasta?
You can use other small pasta shapes like acini di pepe or even long-grain rice, though cooking times and liquid ratios may vary.
Is this a one-pot meal?
Yes, this dish is prepared entirely in a single 3-quart saucepan, making cleanup very easy.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
While not specified, based on the 1 cup of dry orzo, this recipe typically serves 2 as a main dish or 4 as a side.
Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
Yes, use 1 teaspoon of dried basil as a substitute for the 1 tablespoon of fresh basil called for in the recipe.
Is Creamy Spinach Orzo Delight healthy?
Yes, it is high in vegetables like spinach and carrots and is categorized as a low-cholesterol, healthy recipe.
Can I add protein to this dish?
Absolutely! Sautéed chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas make excellent additions to this recipe.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Can this recipe be frozen?
While you can freeze it, the texture of the orzo may become slightly mushy upon thawing and reheating.
What type of cheese works best?
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese provides the best flavor and melting consistency for this dish.
How do I prevent the orzo from sticking to the pan?
Stir the mixture occasionally while it simmers to ensure the orzo is evenly distributed and doesn't stick to the bottom.
Can I use water instead of chicken broth?
You can, but the dish will be less flavorful. If using water, you may need to increase the salt and seasonings.
Is this dish gluten-free?
No, orzo is a wheat-based pasta. To make it gluten-free, use a certified gluten-free orzo or substitute with rice.
How do I make this recipe vegan?
Substitute the butter with olive oil, use vegetable broth, and omit the parmesan or use a vegan cheese alternative.
What other vegetables can be added?
Bell peppers, peas, or small broccoli florets would be great additions to increase the nutritional value.
Can I use brown rice instead of orzo?
Yes, but brown rice requires more liquid and a significantly longer cooking time (around 40-50 minutes).
What is the best way to reheat this?
Reheat in a microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to restore the creamy consistency.
How should I prepare the carrot?
The recipe recommends coarsely shredding one small carrot, which equals about 1/2 cup.
Can I use red onion instead of white?
Yes, red onion works well, though it may provide a slightly stronger flavor and a different color to the dish.
What if I don't have fresh garlic?
You can substitute the 3 fresh cloves with 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, added when you stir in the seasonings.
Is this dish spicy?
No, it is a mild and savory dish. You can add red pepper flakes if you prefer some heat.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, the recipe allows for either butter or margarine for sautéing the vegetables.
What size saucepan is needed?
A 3-quart saucepan is recommended to provide enough room for the broth and pasta to cook properly.
Should the spinach be cooked before adding it?
No, simply slice the fresh spinach and add it to the boiling broth; it will wilt perfectly as the orzo simmers.
How do I know when the orzo is done?
The orzo is done when it is tender and the majority of the chicken broth has been absorbed into the pasta.
Can I add cream for a richer texture?
Yes, stirring in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end of cooking will make the dish even creamier.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, the mild flavors and soft texture of the orzo make it a very popular choice for children.