Spinach and Mushroom Orzo in a Creamy Garlic and Smoked Paprika Sauce
Spinach and Mushroom Orzo in a Creamy Garlic and Smoked Paprika Sauce
Introduction
Spinach and Mushroom Orzo is a simple and delicious dish that combines soft orzo pasta with fresh spinach and mushrooms. It is cooked in a creamy sauce with garlic and smoked paprika, making it a comfort food you will love!
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor. It is a one-pan meal that comes together quickly. Plus, it’s healthy and can be made with ingredients you might already have at home.
How to Make Spinach and Mushroom Orzo
Ingredients:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups spinach, fresh
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
Directions:
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté until they are tender, about 5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and smoked paprika to the skillet, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in the orzo and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is cooked and has absorbed most of the broth.
- Once the orzo is cooked, add the fresh spinach and heavy cream to the skillet. Stir until the spinach is wilted and the sauce is creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
How to Serve Spinach and Mushroom Orzo
Serve this dish hot, right from the skillet. You can add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor. Enjoy it as a main dish or a side!
How to Store Spinach and Mushroom Orzo
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3 days. To reheat, warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if it seems dry.
Tips to Make Spinach and Mushroom Orzo
- Make sure to chop the garlic finely for better flavor.
- Stir the orzo often while it cooks to keep it from sticking.
- Use fresh spinach for the best taste and texture.
Variation (If Any)
You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for more flavor. If you like protein, add cooked chicken or shrimp on top.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, you can use any small pasta you like such as rice, quinoa, or small shells.
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
You can use cashew cream or coconut milk for a lighter option.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this dish is vegetarian and can easily be made vegan by using plant-based cream.
Enjoy making and eating this creamy Spinach and Mushroom Orzo!
Spinach and Mushroom Orzo
Ingredients
Pasta and Vegetables
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups fresh spinach Use fresh for the best taste and texture.
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 3 cloves garlic, minced Chop finely for better flavor.
Sauce Ingredients
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream Can be substituted with cashew cream or coconut milk for a lighter option.
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- to taste salt and pepper
For Serving
- as desired grated Parmesan cheese Optional topping.
Instructions
Cooking the Vegetables
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté until they are tender, about 5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and smoked paprika to the skillet, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Cooking the Orzo
- Stir in the orzo and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is cooked and has absorbed most of the broth.
Final Mixing
- Once the orzo is cooked, add the fresh spinach and heavy cream to the skillet. Stir until the spinach is wilted and the sauce is creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serving
- Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
