Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup heavy cream or 2 tbsp cream cheese (optional)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil or butter in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add onion and sauté until soft and translucent.
- Add garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add mushrooms and cook until they release moisture and turn golden brown. Season with salt and pepper.
- Stir in orzo and toast for 1–2 minutes.
- Gradually add broth, stirring occasionally, and let orzo cook until tender and creamy (about 15–18 minutes).
- Add spinach and stir until wilted.
- Mix in Parmesan cheese and optional cream or cream cheese for extra creaminess.
- Adjust seasoning and add lemon juice if desired for brightness.
- Serve warm.
Notes
- Orzo cooks directly in broth, creating a creamy texture similar to risotto.
- Add extra broth if the mixture becomes too thick.
- Cream or cream cheese is optional but adds richness.
- Cremini or button mushrooms work best for flavor and texture.
- Great as a main dish or a side.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 13g
- Cholesterol: 15mg