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Are you ready to elevate your mealtime experience with a dish that tantalizes your taste buds and embraces nature's vibrant palette? Introducing the Zesty Lemon Spinach Orzo Bliss—a delightful concoction that beautifully marries the freshness of spinach with the zing of lemon, creating a culinary masterpiece that’s both easy to prepare and utterly satisfying. This recipe is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that make it perfect for any occasion, whether you're enjoying a cozy weeknight dinner or impressing guests at a special gathering.

Creamy Orzo with Lemon & Spinach

Discover the vibrant flavors of Zesty Lemon Spinach Orzo Bliss, a delightful dish that's perfect for any occasion. This easy-to-make recipe features orzo pasta paired with fresh spinach, zesty lemon, garlic, and a creamy sauce that brings everything together beautifully. Whether it's a cozy weeknight dinner or an impressive gathering dish, this culinary masterpiece combines nutrition and taste, making it a must-try for your home cooking repertoire. Enjoy a burst of flavor with every bite!
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Ingredients
  

1 cup orzo pasta

2 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for added flavor)

1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

2 garlic cloves, finely minced

4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped

1 cup half-and-half (or heavy cream for a richer sauce)

Zest of 1 lemon

Juice of 1 lemon

1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Optional: A pinch of red pepper flakes for a gentle kick

Fresh parsley or basil, chopped, for garnish

Instructions
 

Cook the Orzo: In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable or chicken broth to a rolling boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to the package instructions, roughly 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

    Sauté Garlic and Spinach: While the orzo is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until the garlic is fragrant but not burnt. Next, add the chopped spinach to the skillet. Cook, stirring frequently, until the spinach is wilted and tender, about 2-3 minutes.

      Create the Creamy Sauce: Once the spinach is wilted, reduce the heat to low. Stir in the half-and-half (or heavy cream), followed by the lemon zest and lemon juice. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, to ensure all the flavors are well integrated.

        Combine Everything: Once the orzo is cooked, drain any excess broth if necessary, then add the orzo to the creamy spinach mixture. Stir everything together thoroughly. Next, fold in the grated Parmesan cheese and mix until it’s melted and the sauce has a creamy consistency. Taste and season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) to achieve your desired flavor profile.

          Serve: Remove the skillet from heat and serve the orzo dish immediately. Garnish generously with fresh parsley or basil to add a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy the delightful blend of creaminess and zesty freshness that makes this dish so unique!

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