Tasty Spinach Orzo

Packed with vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients, Tasty Spinach Orzo is a quick and satisfying dish perfect for weeknight dinners or a light lunch. This creamy orzo pasta is prepared with tender baby spinach, zesty lemon juice, and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, creating a delightful balance of fresh and savory flavors. The dish is brought to life with aromatic garlic and a touch of optional red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. Ready in just 30 minutes, this one-pan recipe is both easy to make and nutrient-packed, making it a go-to option for busy families. Whether served as a hearty vegetarian main or a flavorful side, this spinach orzo recipe is guaranteed to impress.

Nutriscore Rating: 69/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:30 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1.5 cups orzo pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 units garlic cloves, minced
• 6 cups baby spinach
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 3 cups water or vegetable broth
• 0.25 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Directions

Step 1

Bring 3 cups of water or vegetable broth to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add the orzo pasta and a pinch of salt, then cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.

Step 3

Add the baby spinach to the skillet and cook, stirring frequently, until wilted, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 4

Stir in the cooked orzo, lemon zest, and lemon juice into the skillet with the spinach. Mix well to combine.

Step 5

Reduce the heat to low and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the orzo mixture. Stir until the cheese is melted and evenly distributed.

Step 6

Season the dish with salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes to taste. Mix well.

Step 7

Remove from heat and serve warm. Optionally, garnish with extra Parmesan cheese or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for added brightness.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1316.3 grams (1316.3g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1597

Total Fat 47.00g	60%
Saturated Fat 12.40g	62%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.70g
Cholesterol 40mg	13%
Sodium 6000mg	261%
Total Carbohydrate 247.00g	90%
Dietary Fiber 23.00g	82%
Total Sugars 9.20g
Protein 60.10g	120%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 720mg	55%
Iron 17mg	97%
Potassium 389mg	8%

*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: 25.6%

Protein: 14.6%

Carbs: 59.8%