Description
The Spinach and Mushroom Orzo features tender orzo pasta, cooked directly in a creamy garlic and smoked paprika sauce, with sautéed mushrooms and fresh spinach folded in at the end.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients List
For the Orzo:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sauté the Mushrooms:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat.
- Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are golden brown and caramelized.
- Add the Garlic and Smoked Paprika:
- Stir in the minced garlic and smoked paprika, cooking for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Cook the Orzo:
- Add the orzo to the pan and stir to coat it in the garlic, paprika, and mushroom mixture.
- Pour in the vegetable broth, bringing it to a simmer. Cover the pan and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Stir in the Spinach and Cream:
- Once the orzo is cooked, stir in the fresh spinach and heavy cream. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the spinach is wilted and the sauce is creamy and smooth.
- Season and Serve:
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- If desired, garnish with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Notes
Additional Tips and Notes
- Customizing Your Orzo: Feel free to add or substitute ingredients based on your preferences. You can incorporate vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or peas. For added protein, consider stirring in cooked chickpeas, tofu, or a handful of toasted pine nuts.
- Consistency: If the sauce becomes too thick, you can loosen it by adding a splash of vegetable broth or milk until you reach the desired consistency.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve the orzo as a main course or a side dish. It pairs beautifully with grilled proteins like chicken, fish, or tofu for a more substantial meal.