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Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Orzo

Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Orzo for Cozy Nights In

A delightful and quick vegetarian dish combining creamy orzo, vibrant spinach, and savory mushrooms, perfect for any weeknight meal.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Can be substituted with any neutral oil if needed.
  • 8 oz Baby Bella Mushrooms Feel free to swap with cremini or your favorite type.
  • to taste Salt Essential for seasoning.
  • to taste Pepper Essential for seasoning.
  • 1 cup Orzo Uncooked, gluten-free orzo is a fantastic substitute.
  • 2 cups Chicken Broth Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
  • 5 Garlic Minced.
  • ½ teaspoon Italian Seasoning Can be substituted with a mix of dried herbs.
  • ½ teaspoon Paprika Consider adjusting for more heat if desired.
For the Greens
  • 5 oz Fresh Spinach Kale or Swiss chard can be delightful alternatives.
For Creaminess
  • ½ cup Heavy Cream Replace with coconut milk or a non-dairy option for a lighter dish.
  • ¼ teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes Optional, adjust based on your spice tolerance.

Equipment

  • Large skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced baby bella mushrooms and season with salt and pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes until browned and tender. Remove half of the mushrooms from the skillet and set aside.
  2. With the remaining mushrooms in the skillet, add 1 cup of uncooked orzo. Pour in 2 cups of chicken broth, add 5 minced garlic cloves, ½ teaspoon of Italian seasoning, and ½ teaspoon of paprika. Stir everything together, ensuring that the orzo is well coated and submerged in the broth.
  3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and let the orzo cook for about 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until most of the liquid is absorbed and orzo is tender.
  4. During the last 5 minutes of cooking, stir in 5 ounces of fresh spinach. Cover again, allowing the spinach to wilt and enhance its nutritional value.
  5. Once spinach has wilted, remove the skillet from heat. Slowly stir in ½ cup of heavy cream on low heat to combine without boiling, creating a rich, creamy texture.
  6. Reintroduce the reserved mushrooms to the skillet and mix gently. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes for heat. Serve warm and enjoy!

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 10gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 2000IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 80mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water.

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