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One-Pot Creamy Lemon Garlic Parmesan Orzo with Spinach

A spoonful of creamy, cheesy orzo pasta mixed with wilted spinach, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
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Make this simple, comforting orzo pasta dish in one pot. It combines creamy Parmesan, bright lemon, garlic, and fresh spinach for a satisfying weeknight meal or side dish.

Ingredients

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  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
  • 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 4 cups fresh spinach
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft, about 4 minutes.
  2. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Do not let the garlic burn.
  3. Add the orzo pasta to the skillet and toast it for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  5. Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Mix until the sauce is creamy.
  6. Add the fresh spinach to the orzo. Stir gently until the spinach wilts into the pasta, about 1 to 2 minutes.
  7. Season with salt and pepper to your preference. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan cheese on top.

Notes

  • This one-pot orzo recipe is a great alternative to complex meal planning; it keeps cleanup minimal.
  • For a richer flavor, substitute half of the chicken broth with vegetable broth.
  • If you need a quick side dish, reduce the broth by 1/2 cup and skip the spinach for a pure Garlic Parmesan Orzo.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cutcooktaste.com/one-pot-creamy-lemon-orzo-pasta-recipe/