Ingredients
1.5 cups dry orzo pasta
3 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
2 cups fresh baby spinach
1 large shallot, finely minced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat until the butter is melted and bubbling.
Step 2: Add the dry orzo to the skillet. Toast the orzo, stirring frequently, for about 3 minutes until it turns a light golden brown and smells nutty.
Step 3: Stir in the minced shallot and cook for 2 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 4: Slowly pour in the broth while stirring. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
Step 5: Cover and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Step 6: Remove from heat. Stir in the fresh spinach and grated parmesan cheese until the spinach is wilted and the sauce is creamy.
Step 7: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
For an extra creamy finish, stir in a tablespoon of mascarpone or heavy cream at the end. Always use freshly grated parmesan for the best melt.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 385
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 30mg