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Close-up of creamy orzo pasta with wilted spinach, topped with grated parmesan cheese, in a skillet. A veggie sides recipe.

Parmesan and Spinach Orzo

This recipe for Parmesan and Spinach Orzo is a simple and flavorful vegetable side dish that can complement any meal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Orzo Pasta
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
Aromatics and Base
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, diced
Sauce
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup whole milk
Vegetables and Cheese
  • 1 1/2 cups baby spinach, roughly chopped
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Seasoning
  • to taste Kosher salt
  • to taste freshly ground black pepper

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Cast Iron Skillet
  • Whisk

Method
 

  1. Cook orzo pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water according to package directions. Drain well.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and onion. Cook, stirring frequently, until onions are translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
  3. Whisk in flour until lightly browned, about 1 minute.
  4. Gradually whisk in milk. Cook, whisking constantly, until slightly thickened, about 3-4 minutes.
  5. Stir in spinach until wilted, about 3 minutes.
  6. Stir in Parmesan until melted, about 1 minute.
  7. Stir in the cooked orzo. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  8. Serve immediately.

Notes

This orzo dish is a versatile side that pairs well with many main courses. You can add other vegetables like peas or chopped bell peppers along with the spinach for extra color and nutrients.

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