Description
Creamy Lemon Orzo with Spinach and Parmesan is a delightful dish that combines the richness of cream and cheese with the freshness of spinach and a zesty lemon flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups orzo pasta
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a large pot, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside, reserving 1 cup of the broth.
- In the same pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the fresh spinach to the pot and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in the heavy cream, reserved broth, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add the cooked orzo and grated Parmesan cheese to the pot. Stir until well combined and the cheese has melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Remove from heat and let it sit for a couple of minutes to thicken. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes
- For added protein, consider mixing in cooked chicken or shrimp before serving.
- Substitute the spinach with kale or arugula for a different flavor profile.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 60mg