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Spinach Mushroom Orzo

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This Spinach Mushroom Orzo is a creamy, one-pot dish loaded with tender orzo, earthy mushrooms, and vibrant spinach. It’s an easy, versatile recipe that works as a comforting main dish or a hearty side for grilled chicken or fish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (200 g) orzo pasta
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 8 oz (225 g) mushrooms, sliced (button, cremini, or your choice)
  • 2 cups (480 ml) vegetable or chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) milk or cream
  • 3 cups (90 g) fresh spinach, roughly chopped
  • 1/4 cup (25 g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme or 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)

Instructions

1. Sauté the vegetables

  1. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes, until softened.
  3. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
  4. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 5–6 minutes, until they release their moisture and turn golden.

2. Toast the orzo

  1. Add the orzo to the skillet and stir well to coat it with the oil and butter.
  2. Cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring occasionally, to lightly toast the orzo.

3. Add the broth

  1. Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and stir to combine.
  2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

4. Stir in the spinach and cream

  1. Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and stir until wilted.
  2. Pour in the milk or cream and mix until the sauce is creamy and coats the orzo.

5. Finish with Parmesan and seasonings

  1. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and thyme.
  2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Serve

  1. Serve warm, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and a squeeze of lemon juice, if desired.

Notes

  • Variations: Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon for a heartier dish.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
  • Shortcuts: Use pre-sliced mushrooms and baby spinach to save time.