Description
This creamy spinach lemon orzo is a quick, one-skillet dish featuring fresh basil, vibrant lemon, and a luscious creamy texture. It’s perfect as a hearty vegetarian main or a versatile side dish.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 large shallot, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1/4 cup white cooking wine (optional)
- 2 1/2 cups vegetable stock
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 3 cups fresh spinach (or 1 cup thawed frozen spinach)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, sliced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt the butter. Add the shallot and garlic and cook for about 5 minutes until fragrant and softened.
- Add the dry orzo and toast it in the skillet for 1–2 minutes, stirring frequently.
- If using white wine, pour it in to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
- Stir in the thyme and vegetable stock. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 10–15 minutes, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan, spinach, basil, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Mix until creamy and the spinach is wilted.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with extra lemon zest and Parmesan before serving.
Notes
- Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.
- Skip the wine and add more stock if preferred.
- Add chicken, shrimp, or mushrooms for a protein-rich main dish.
- Use kale instead of spinach for a different texture.
- Sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers add color and flavor.
- Reheat with a splash of stock or cream to restore creaminess.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 430mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
