Spinach Mushroom Orzo is a creamy, tasty dish that packs a punch with fresh spinach and hearty mushrooms. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for any meal!
Don’t be surprised if you go back for seconds—it’s that good! I love making it on busy nights because it’s quick and easy, just a stir here and there, and it’s ready!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orzo Pasta: Orzo is a small, rice-shaped pasta that absorbs flavors well. If you can’t find orzo, try using another small pasta like ditalini, acini di pepe, or even quinoa for a gluten-free option.
Vegetable Broth: This adds depth to your orzo. If you’re low on broth, water works in a pinch, but you could also use chicken broth for added flavor, depending on your preferences.
Mushrooms: I like using cremini mushrooms for their rich flavor, but button mushrooms are a great alternative. If you’re looking to skip mushrooms altogether, you could add extra spinach or other veggies.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is best, providing a vibrant color and taste. If you have frozen spinach, that’s okay too! Just thaw and drain it well before adding to the dish.
Parmesan Cheese: This is optional, but it adds a nice creamy touch. If you’re dairy-free, nutritional yeast is a great substitute that can give a cheesy flavor.
How Do You Get Perfectly Sautéed Mushrooms?
Sautéing mushrooms properly is key to unlocking their full flavor. The right technique includes some simple steps to achieve that golden color and tender texture.
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding mushrooms. This helps to get a nice sear.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; this avoids steaming. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Give them time! Cook for about 5-7 minutes, letting them brown before stirring too often.
These tips will help you get wonderful mushrooms that boost the overall taste of your orzo dish!
How to Make Spinach Mushroom Orzo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced (such as cremini or button)
- 4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe is quick and simple! You will need about 10 minutes for preparation and about 15 minutes for cooking, making the total time approximately 25 minutes. Perfect for a delicious weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Orzo:
In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. When it’s done, drain the orzo and set it aside, but remember to reserve a little of the broth in case you need it later.
2. Sauté the Onion:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté it until it becomes translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Stirring occasionally will help it cook evenly!
3. Add Garlic and Mushrooms:
Throw in the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms next. Cook them together until the mushrooms are nicely browned and tender, approximately 5-7 minutes. The aroma should be delicious by now!
4. Stir in the Spinach:
Add the chopped fresh spinach to the skillet and cook it until it wilts down, which will only take about 2 minutes. This is where the dish really starts to come together!
5. Combine with Orzo:
Now, incorporate the cooked orzo into the skillet with the vegetables. Mix in the red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to taste. If it looks a bit dry, just add a splash of your reserved vegetable broth to bring everything together.
6. Adjust Seasonings and Serve:
Taste your creation and adjust any seasonings if needed. If you like, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the warm dish just before serving for an extra layer of flavor.
7. Garnish and Enjoy:
Finally, garnish your Spinach Mushroom Orzo with fresh thyme or parsley for a lovely touch. Serve it warm and enjoy this cozy, comforting dish!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta Rather Than Orzo?
Absolutely! You can substitute orzo with other small pasta shapes like couscous, ditalini, or even small shells. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the pasta you choose.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! Feel free to incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or even sun-dried tomatoes. Just remember to adjust the cooking time based on the vegetables you choose, ensuring they are tender but not mushy.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
To make this dish vegan, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or replace it with a plant-based cheese alternative. You can also enhance the flavor by adding nutritional yeast, which gives a similar cheesy taste!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you find it has dried out a bit after refrigeration, just add a splash of vegetable broth when reheating for extra moisture.
