This Spinach Mushroom Orzo is a cozy and nourishing one-pot pasta that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Tender orzo pasta is simmered until al dente, then combined with sautéed mushrooms, fresh spinach, garlic, and onions for a savory base.
A light creamy sauce brings everything together, coating the pasta and vegetables in rich, comforting flavor without being too heavy. This dish is simple to prepare and quick to cook, making it an ideal choice for anyone craving Italian-inspired comfort food at home.
Comforting One-Pot Meal
There’s something incredibly soothing about a bowl of creamy spinach and mushroom orzo pasta. This dish, often referred to as Spinach Mushroom Orzo, brings together tender orzo pasta with sautéed mushrooms and vibrant spinach, all enveloped in a light creamy sauce.
Perfect for busy weeknights, this Italian Orzo Pasta with Spinach and Mushrooms can be prepared in just 30 minutes. It’s an ideal choice for those seeking a quick yet satisfying meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
Whether you’re a fan of mushroom orzo recipes or simply looking for easy orzo recipes, this dish is sure to please. The combination of creamy mushroom spinach orzo and the freshness of the vegetables creates a delightful balance that is both comforting and nourishing.
Ingredients for a Wholesome Dish
To create this delightful orzo with spinach and mushrooms, you’ll need a handful of simple ingredients. The star of the show is, of course, the orzo pasta, which cooks quickly and absorbs flavors beautifully.
Fresh spinach adds a burst of color and nutrients, while sautéed mushrooms provide an earthy depth. The addition of garlic and onion enhances the overall flavor profile, making each bite a savory experience.
A splash of heavy cream or milk ties everything together, resulting in a creamy texture that coats the pasta perfectly. Don’t forget the grated Parmesan cheese for that extra touch of richness!
Quick Cooking Process
This creamy mushroom spinach orzo is a one-pot wonder, making cleanup a breeze. Start by sautéing onions and garlic in olive oil until they become translucent, then add the sliced mushrooms to cook until tender.
Next, introduce the orzo and vegetable broth, bringing the mixture to a boil before reducing the heat to simmer. In just 10-12 minutes, the orzo will be al dente and ready for the final touches.
Stir in the chopped spinach and cream, allowing the spinach to wilt and the sauce to thicken slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and your comforting meal is ready to serve!
Serving Suggestions
Once your creamy spinach and mushroom orzo is cooked to perfection, it’s time to serve! Ladle the pasta into bowls and sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an added layer of flavor.
This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or crusty bread, making it a complete meal. Whether it’s a family dinner or a cozy night in, this orzo spinach recipe is sure to impress.
For those who enjoy meal prep, this dish can be made ahead of time and reheated, making it a fantastic option for busy schedules.
Nutritional Benefits
This creamy orzo pasta is not only delicious but also provides a balanced meal. With each serving containing around 320 calories, it offers a satisfying option without being overly heavy.
The combination of carbohydrates from the orzo, healthy fats from the olive oil, and protein from the cheese makes it a well-rounded dish.
Plus, the addition of spinach and mushrooms contributes essential vitamins and minerals, making this dish a wholesome choice for any day of the week.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This creamy mushroom spinach orzo is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting experience. The simplicity of the recipe allows for easy customization, whether you want to add more vegetables or adjust the creaminess to your liking.
It’s a versatile dish that can be enjoyed year-round, making it a staple in your recipe collection.
So, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to a comforting bowl of orzo with spinach and mushrooms that’s sure to warm your heart and satisfy your cravings.
Easy Italian Orzo Pasta with Spinach and Mushrooms
This creamy orzo pasta features tender orzo cooked with sautéed mushrooms and fresh spinach, creating a delicious and wholesome meal. The recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish and serves 4 people.
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or milk
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until translucent (about 3-4 minutes).
- Add Mushrooms: Stir in sliced mushrooms and cook until they are tender and browned (about 5 minutes).
- Cook Orzo: Add the orzo pasta and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is al dente and the liquid is mostly absorbed.
- Incorporate Spinach: Stir in the chopped spinach and heavy cream. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the sauce is creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Remove from heat, and serve warm, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 320kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 40g