This Easy Spinach Orzo is a bright, tasty dish packed with goodness! It features creamy orzo pasta mixed with fresh spinach, zesty sun-dried tomatoes, and tangy artichokes.
You’ll love how quick it comes together—perfect for a busy weeknight! I often pair it with grilled chicken for a wholesome meal. Yum! 🍽️
Ingredients & Substitutions
Orzo Pasta: Orzo is a tiny pasta that resembles rice. If you don’t have orzo, you can use other small pasta like couscous, ditalini, or even quinoa for a gluten-free option.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add a nice tangy flavor. If you can’t find them, use fresh tomatoes or canned diced tomatoes. Just make sure to drain them well!
Artichoke Hearts: Canned or jarred artichokes work best here. Frozen is another option. Just thaw and drain properly before using.
Capers: They provide a salty, briny kick. You could substitute olives if you’re out of capers or prefer a different flavor. Just chop them up a bit.
How Do You Cook Orzo to Perfection?
Cooking orzo properly ensures it has the right texture for this dish. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with a large pot of salted boiling water. Salt helps enhance the flavor of the pasta.
- Add the orzo and stir immediately to prevent sticking.
- Cook according to package instructions, about 7-9 minutes, until it’s al dente—firm to the bite but not hard.
- Before draining, reserve a cup of pasta water in case you want to adjust the sauce later. Then drain the orzo and set aside.
Remember, overcooking orzo can make it mushy, so be sure to keep an eye on it! Enjoy your cooking! 🌱
Easy Spinach Orzo with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Artichokes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, sliced (oil-packed or rehydrated)
- 1 cup artichoke hearts, chopped (canned or jarred, drained)
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 2 tbsp capers, drained
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh oregano leaves or fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 20 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick and easy meal perfect for busy nights. You’ll spend just a few moments boiling the orzo and then sautéing the veggies—simple and satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Orzo:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to the package instructions, which is usually around 7-9 minutes, until it’s al dente. Drain the orzo and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
While the orzo is cooking, grab a large skillet and heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant and just starting to brown. Be careful not to burn it!
3. Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Artichokes:
Next, toss in the sliced sun-dried tomatoes and chopped artichoke hearts into the skillet. Stir occasionally and let them cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing their flavors to meld together and warm up beautifully.
4. Add Spinach:
Now, it’s time to add the fresh spinach. Stir it into the skillet and cook until it’s just wilted—this should take about 2 minutes. The vibrant green will look lovely in the dish!
5. Combine Everything:
Stir in the cooked orzo, drained capers, and the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. If you’re a fan of heat, sprinkle in the red pepper flakes at this point. Toss everything together gently to combine well!
6. Season and Garnish:
Season the dish with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remove it from the heat and garnish with fresh oregano or basil leaves, and sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top if you like.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the orzo warm as a light main dish or as a flavorful side. Enjoy every bite of your Mediterranean-inspired creation!
This Easy Spinach Orzo is not just delicious; it’s also loaded with fresh, healthy ingredients, making it a wonderful addition to your meal rotation. Enjoy! 🌿
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Whole Wheat Orzo Instead of Regular Orzo?
Absolutely! Whole wheat orzo is a great alternative to regular orzo and will add more fiber to your dish. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as it may vary slightly.
What Can I Substitute for Sun-Dried Tomatoes?
If you don’t have sun-dried tomatoes on hand, fresh tomatoes can work in a pinch! Just make sure to chop them small and cook them a bit longer to enhance their flavor. You may also use diced canned tomatoes, but drain them well to avoid excess moisture.
How Can I Make This Dish Vegan?
To make this Easy Spinach Orzo vegan, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or replace it with a plant-based cheese alternative. All other ingredients are already vegan-friendly!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or oil if needed to loosen the pasta.
