This creamy vegan Tuscan orzo is a cozy dish packed with flavor! Made with delicious ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and herbs, it’s sure to warm you up.
Honestly, who could resist creamy orzo? It’s like a hug in a bowl! I love how quick it comes together—perfect for busy nights when comfort is needed. 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orzo Pasta: This tiny pasta is perfect for creamy dishes. If you can’t find orzo, try using another small pasta like ditalini or couscous. It’s a great way to switch up the texture while still enjoying a similar meal.
Coconut Milk: I love using coconut milk for its richness. If you’re not a fan, almond milk or cashew cream can be good substitutes, though they won’t be as thick. Just check the unsweetened versions to keep the flavors balanced!
Vegetable Broth: Using vegetable broth adds a nice depth of flavor. If you’re low on broth, water works in a pinch, but consider adding a bit of soy sauce or miso paste for extra flavor. Homemade broth is always a winner if you have it!
Fresh Spinach: Spinach wilts nicely into dishes. If you want a different flavor, kale or Swiss chard can be used instead, but you might want to chop them smaller and cook them a bit longer to soften them up.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add a lovely tanginess. If you’re out, olives can be a nice substitute for a salty punch. Just chop them up and stir them in.
How Do I Cook Orzo Perfectly?
Cooking orzo might sound simple, but there are tips to get it right! Here’s how to do it to achieve the best texture:
- Start by toasting the orzo in a splash of broth or oil for a couple of minutes. This helps enhance its nuttiness.
- When adding broth and tomatoes, make sure to bring it to a boil before lowering the heat. This initial burst of heat can help the orzo cook evenly.
- Stir occasionally during simmering to prevent it from sticking to the pot. You want it creamy, not clumpy!
- Take the pot off heat as soon as the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. If it looks too dry, add a bit more broth and stir.
How to Make Creamy Vegan Tuscan Orzo?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (mixed colors)
- 1/2 cup coconut milk (or any plant-based cream)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- Nutritional yeast or vegan cheese for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy vegan tuscan orzo recipe takes about 25 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 5 minutes preparing the ingredients and then around 20 minutes cooking everything to perfection. It’s quick, easy, and oh-so-delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Garlic:
In a large pot over medium heat, pour a splash of vegetable broth. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until it becomes fragrant. This will give your dish a wonderful aroma right from the start!
2. Toast the Orzo:
Add the orzo pasta to the pot and toast it for about 2 minutes. Keep stirring it frequently to prevent it from sticking. This step helps to enhance the nutty flavor of the orzo.
3. Cook the Pasta Mixture:
Pour in the vegetable broth and add the canned diced tomatoes along with their juices. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low.
4. Simmer the Orzo:
Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. Make sure not to overcook it!
5. Add Fresh Ingredients:
Once the orzo is cooked, stir in the coconut milk, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, and halved cherry tomatoes. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and everything is heated through.
6. Season to Taste:
Now, it’s time to season! Add the dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well and adjust the seasoning according to your taste. A little taste test here is always fun!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your creamy vegan tuscan orzo warm, garnished with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of nutritional yeast or vegan cheese if you wish. Enjoy every creamy bite!
Can I Substitute Another Type of Pasta for Orzo?
Absolutely! If you can’t find orzo, you can use any small pasta shape like couscous, quinoa, or even small shells. Just be mindful of the cooking times, as they may vary. Make sure to adjust the liquid if needed, especially for thicker pasta types!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen it up, as the orzo may absorb more liquid over time. Gently warm on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! Just substitute regular orzo with gluten-free orzo or another gluten-free pasta option. Additionally, ensure that your vegetable broth and any optional toppings, like vegan cheese, are also gluten-free. Enjoy a delicious gluten-free meal!
What Can I Use Instead of Coconut Milk?
If you’re not a fan of coconut milk, you can use any plant-based cream or unsweetened almond or oat milk. Just be aware that the flavor might differ slightly; adding a bit of nutritional yeast can help maintain the creamy taste!
