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Zesty Creamy Orzo with Spinach & Lemon is a vibrant and comforting dish that brings an explosion of flavors to your table. Perfectly creamy and bursting with bright citrus notes, this recipe elevates the humble orzo pasta into a delightful main course or side dish that is both satisfying and nutritious. The combination of fresh spinach and zesty lemon not only enhances the flavor profile but also adds a host of vitamins and minerals, making this dish a fantastic choice for those seeking wholesome meals without compromising on taste.

Creamy Orzo with Lemon & Spinach

Discover the deliciousness of Zesty Creamy Orzo with Spinach & Lemon, a comforting and vibrant dish that elevates orzo pasta with creamy textures and bright citrus flavors. This versatile recipe is perfect for casual dinners or special gatherings and can be easily adapted for dietary preferences, including dairy-free and vegan options. With fresh spinach and zesty lemon adding nutrition and flavor, this dish will become a favorite in your kitchen. Easy to make and delightful to serve, it’s sure to impress!
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Ingredients
  

1 cup orzo pasta

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 small onion, finely chopped

4 cups fresh spinach (or 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained)

1 cup vegetable broth

1 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for a dairy-free version)

Juice and zest of 1 lemon

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for a vegan option)

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Optional: Red pepper flakes for a spicy kick

Instructions
 

Cook the Orzo:

    - Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Once boiling, add the orzo pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (usually around 8-10 minutes). After cooking, drain the orzo in a colander and set aside, but don’t forget to reserve about 1/4 cup of the pasta water in case you need it later.

      Sauté the Aromatics:

        - In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. When the oil is shimmering, add the minced garlic and finely chopped onion. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onion becomes translucent and releases a fragrant aroma.

          Add the Spinach:

            - Incorporate the fresh spinach into the skillet, stirring it into the aromatic mixture. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the spinach has wilted down significantly. If using frozen spinach, simply stir it in and heat until it is warmed through.

              Create the Creamy Base:

                - Pour in the vegetable broth followed by the heavy cream (or coconut cream if you're opting for a dairy-free dish). Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. Allow it to simmer for about 3-4 minutes, letting it thicken slightly.

                  Combine with Orzo:

                    - Add the cooked orzo back into the skillet. Squeeze in the lemon juice, sprinkle the lemon zest, and fold in the grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast). Stir everything together until well combined. If your orzo mixture looks too thick to your liking, add in a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your preferred consistency. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper according to your taste.

                      Serve and Garnish:

                        - Once everything is well combined and heated through, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish your dish with freshly chopped parsley and, if desired, sprinkle some red pepper flakes for an extra kick. Serve immediately to enjoy this creamy, zesty delight while warm.

                          Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 25 minutes | 4 servings

                            Presentation Tips: Serve the orzo in shallow bowls, topping with extra Parmesan cheese and a lemon wedge on the side for an eye-catching finish.