Orzo with Wilted Spinach

Elevate your side dish game with this vibrant and flavorful Orzo with Wilted Spinach recipe! Perfectly cooked orzo pasta is tossed with tender baby spinach, garlic-infused olive oil, and a zesty touch of lemon, creating a light yet satisfying dish. A generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese adds rich, creamy depth, while optional red pepper flakes provide a subtle kick of heat. This one-pan wonder comes together in just 25 minutes, making it an ideal weeknight dinner or an elegant accompaniment to grilled meat or fish. Packed with fresh, wholesome ingredients and bursting with Mediterranean-inspired flavors, this comforting and versatile recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

Nutriscore Rating: 67/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:15 mins

Total Time:25 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 4 cups baby spinach
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic
• 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
• 0.25 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Directions

Step 1

In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken or vegetable broth to a boil over medium-high heat.

Step 2

Add the orzo to the boiling broth and cook according to the package instructions, typically about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 3

While the orzo is cooking, mince the garlic.

Step 4

In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil.

Step 5

Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Step 6

Stir in the baby spinach to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, tossing gently, until the spinach is wilted.

Step 7

Once the orzo is cooked, drain any excess liquid and add the orzo to the skillet with the wilted spinach. Toss to combine.

Step 8

Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper. If desired, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for some heat.

Step 9

Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, ensuring everything is well combined and heated through.

Step 10

Remove from heat and serve immediately. Optionally, top with additional Parmesan cheese for garnish.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	935 grams (935.0g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1363

Total Fat 56.70g	73%
Saturated Fat 20.60g	103%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.70g
Cholesterol 80mg	27%
Sodium 4354mg	189%
Total Carbohydrate 160.60g	58%
Dietary Fiber 14.70g	53%
Total Sugars 5.10g
Protein 63.50g	127%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 1069mg	82%
Iron 12mg	65%
Potassium 142mg	3%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 36.3%

Protein: 18.1%

Carbs: 45.7%