Description
This Easy Orzo Pasta with Mushrooms & Spinach is a flavorful and comforting Mediterranean-inspired main course. It features tender orzo pasta cooked with sautéed mushrooms, fresh spinach, and aromatic herbs, all finished with a touch of Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this one-pot dish combines wholesome ingredients with simple cooking techniques to deliver a satisfying and nutritious meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 ounces cremini or button mushrooms, sliced
- 3 cups baby spinach
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat the oil and cook onion: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened and translucent.
- Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release its aroma without burning.
- Cook mushrooms: Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook for 6 to 8 minutes until they are browned and most of their liquid has evaporated.
- Toast the orzo: Stir in the orzo pasta and cook for 1 to 2 minutes, allowing it to toast slightly and enhance its flavor.
- Add broth and simmer: Pour in the vegetable broth, bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Wilt the spinach and add seasonings: Stir in the baby spinach, dried thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the spinach wilts and is incorporated evenly.
- Finish with cheese and seasoning: Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve the dish warm for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For a vegan alternative, omit the Parmesan cheese or use a plant-based substitute.
- Add a splash of lemon juice at the end to brighten the flavors.
- Feel free to swap spinach for kale or Swiss chard for a variation in flavor and texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
