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Creamy Spinach Orzo with Mushrooms Recipe

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3.9 from 12 reviews

  • Author: Chef
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A creamy, comforting one-pot Spinach Orzo (Risoni) dish that combines sautéed mushrooms, tender orzo pasta, and nutritious spinach in a flavorful parmesan-infused sauce. This easy meal comes together in just 30 minutes, perfect for a satisfying vegetarian dinner without any cream.

Ingredients

Produce

  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 1.2 lb (600g) button mushrooms, sliced
  • 8 oz (250g) frozen spinach, thawed with excess water squeezed out
  • Finely chopped parsley (for garnish)

Dairy

  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 3/4 cup parmesan cheese, grated (plus extra for garnish)
  • 1 1/2 cups (375 ml) low fat milk

Pantry

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 tbsp flour
  • 3 cups (750 ml) chicken broth
  • 1 1/2 cups orzo (risoni), uncooked
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Heat Oil and Sauté Mushrooms: Heat the olive oil in a large non-stick pan over high heat. Add sliced mushrooms and cook for about 3 minutes until softened. Remove from the pan and set aside.
  2. Sauté Onion and Garlic: Lower heat to medium, add butter to the pan and melt. Add minced garlic and diced onion, sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 3 minutes.
  3. Add Flour: Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
  4. Add Liquids: Gradually whisk in the low fat milk and chicken broth, mixing the roux into the liquid to create a smooth base.
  5. Cook Orzo: Increase heat to medium-high. Add the orzo, salt, and pepper then stir once. Cover the pan with a lid and bring to a simmer. Let cook for 8 to 10 minutes until the orzo is cooked but still slightly firm and the sauce remains saucy. Adjust heat to keep a gentle simmer.
  6. Prepare Spinach: While the orzo cooks, break up the thawed spinach into small pieces with your fingers.
  7. Combine Ingredients: Remove the pan from heat. Stir in the cooked mushrooms, spinach, and grated parmesan cheese. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
  8. Serve: Serve immediately, garnished with extra parmesan and finely chopped parsley for freshness.

Notes

  • Use a non-stick pan for best results or increase olive oil if using stainless steel to prevent sticking.
  • Do not overcook the orzo; it should remain slightly firm to avoid becoming mushy.
  • The sauce is creamy without any cream, thanks to the roux and parmesan cheese.
  • This recipe is vegetarian and makes a great meat-free meal option.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian

Find it online: https://saracooking.com/creamy-spinach-orzo-with-mushrooms-recipe/