This creamy spinach and mushroom orzo is a quick and tasty meal that brings cozy vibes to your kitchen! It all cooks in one pan, making cleanup a breeze.
With fresh spinach and savory mushrooms, what’s not to love? I find myself going back for seconds (and sometimes thirds). Just embrace the yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orzo Pasta: This rice-shaped pasta is perfect for absorbing flavors. If you’re out of orzo, try other small pastas like farro, couscous, or even quinoa for a gluten-free option.
Mushrooms: Cremini or button mushrooms work great, but if you want a stronger flavor, shiitake or portobello can be excellent choices. For a lighter taste, you can use zucchini or bell peppers instead.
Heavy Cream: Want a lighter dish? Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream for a dairy-free version. I find that cashew cream is a nice alternative, offering a rich texture.
Parmesan Cheese: If you’re skipping dairy, nutritional yeast can give a cheesy flavor while keeping it vegan. I often use a sprinkle of pecorino for a saltier touch, which works well too.
How Do You Get Perfectly Cooked Orzo?
Cooking orzo perfectly is key. It should be tender but still have a bit of bite (al dente). Here’s how to do it:
- Before adding broth, toast the orzo in the pan with onions and mushrooms for 1-2 minutes. This enhances its flavor.
- When you add the broth, keep the heat at medium-high until it reaches a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally. This ensures even cooking.
Check the doneness after about 10 minutes. If it seems to absorb too much liquid, you can add a splash more broth until it’s just right.
How to Make Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Orzo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced (preferably cremini or button)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream (or a dairy-free alternative)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes total. You’ll need around 10 minutes for prep and 20 minutes for cooking. Perfect for a quick and delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onion:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet or a deep pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the finely chopped onion. Sauté the onion for about 3-4 minutes, or until it becomes translucent and soft.
2. Cook the Mushrooms and Garlic:
Next, add the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms to the pan. Cook everything together, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes, until the mushrooms are browned and tender.
3. Prepare the Orzo:
Add the orzo to the skillet, stirring it in with the sautéed vegetables. This step lightly toasts the orzo, giving it extra flavor. Cook for about 1-2 minutes.
4. Add the Broth:
Pour in the vegetable broth and sprinkle in the Italian seasoning. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Allow it to simmer uncovered for about 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
5. Mix in Spinach and Cream:
Add the chopped fresh spinach and heavy cream to the pan. If you’re using Parmesan cheese, sprinkle that in as well. Stir everything together until the spinach wilts and everything is well mixed. Allow it to cook for another 2-3 minutes.
6. Final Seasoning:
Lastly, season your dish with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired. Give it a final stir to incorporate the seasonings.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your creamy spinach and mushroom orzo hot, garnished with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Orzo Instead of Regular Orzo?
Absolutely! Whole wheat orzo will add a nuttier flavor and more fiber to the dish. Just note that cooking times may vary slightly, so check the package instructions and taste for doneness a minute or two before the suggested time.
Can I Replace Heavy Cream with a Dairy-Free Alternative?
Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream, cashew cream, or any plant-based cream. Just ensure it’s unsweetened to avoid affecting the flavor of your dish.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of broth or water to the skillet or microwave to prevent drying out.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Recipe?
Definitely! Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or peas for added flavor and nutrition. Just sauté them along with the onions for the best results before adding the mushrooms.
