Description
Delightful Mushroom and Spinach Orzo: A Cozy One-Pan Masterpiece
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo (whole-wheat optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cups mushrooms (button, cremini, or baby bella)
- 4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- ½ cup heavy cream (optional, or use coconut cream for dairy-free)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (thyme or parsley for garnish
Instructions
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and finely chopped onion, and sauté until fragrant and soft, about 2-3 minutes.
2. Next, add the mushrooms to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re tender and beautifully browned.
3. Stir in the orzo and pour in the vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
4. Once the orzo is cooked, stir in the chopped spinach and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the spinach to wilt and blend seamlessly with the other ingredients.
5. For an extra-indulgent touch, you can stir in the heavy cream (or dairy-free coconut cream) and grated Parmesan cheese. This will create a wonderfully creamy and flavorful sauce that coats the Mushroom and Spinach Orzo perfectly.
6. Finally, season the dish with salt and pepper to taste, and top it with fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for a beautiful and fragrant finishing touch. Serve this Mushroom and Spinach Orzo warm, either as a hearty side dish or a satisfying main course.
Notes
To ensure your Mushroom and Spinach Orzo turns out absolutely mouthwatering, let’s explore a few key cooking techniques and tips:
Properly sautéing the garlic and onion is crucial for building a solid flavor foundation. Be sure to cook them until they’re fragrant and softened, but not browned, to avoid bitterness.
When it comes to the mushrooms, take your time and let them develop a delightful caramelized texture. This will amplify their earthy, umami-rich flavor and create a more complex, satisfying dish.
Orzo can be tricky to get just right, but with a little attention, you’ll nail it. Keep an eye on the simmering time and stir occasionally to prevent sticking or overcooking. The orzo should be tender but still have a slight bite to it.
For a healthier twist, consider using whole-wheat orzo or even a gluten-free pasta alternative. You can also experiment with replacing the heavy cream with a dairy-free option, like unsweetened coconut cream, for a lighter yet still creamy texture.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2
- Sodium: 500
- Fat: 20
- Saturated Fat: 10
- Unsaturated Fat: 8
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 40
- Fiber: 5
- Protein: 10
- Cholesterol: 30