This tasty dish combines orzo pasta with sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach for a colorful meal. It’s quick to make and full of flavors that dance in your mouth!
Making this orzo is a breeze! Just cook the pasta, mix in the veggies, and you’ve got a wonderful meal that even the pickiest eaters will enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orzo Pasta: This small rice-shaped pasta is perfect for this dish. If you don’t have orzo, you can use another small pasta like couscous, ditalini, or even quinoa for a gluten-free option.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: I love the intense flavor that sun-dried tomatoes bring. If you want a fresher taste, you can use fresh cherry tomatoes instead. Just chop and add them at the same time as the spinach!
Spinach: Fresh spinach is great, but you can also use kale or arugula if that’s what you have on hand. Just chop them roughly and look for that similar wilted look when cooking.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a creamy texture. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese alternative.
How Do You Ensure the Orzo is Cooked Perfectly?
The key to perfect orzo is timing! Here’s how to do it:
- Bring a pot of salted water to a rolling boil before adding the orzo. This helps prevent sticking.
- Stir occasionally while cooking to keep it loose. Follow package instructions to achieve al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.
- Taste it a minute or so before the cooking time is up to get your desired texture.
- When done, drain the orzo and briefly rinse with cold water if you want to stop the cooking process. This keeps it from getting mushy!
Enjoy making this dish with these helpful tips! It’s simple and rewarding!
Easy Sun-Dried Tomato and Spinach Orzo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (preferably packed in oil)
- 3 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for a mild kick
- Optional garnish: fresh basil or parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick and delicious meal that’s perfect for busy evenings or when you want something satisfying without a lot of fuss!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Orzo:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once the water is boiling, add the orzo pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until the pasta is al dente, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once it’s cooked, drain the orzo and set it aside for later.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
While your orzo is cooking, grab a large skillet and heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to let it brown too much!
3. Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Spinach:
Next, toss in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring to combine and warm everything through. Then, add the fresh spinach to the skillet and stir until it’s wilted, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
4. Combine Everything:
Now, add the cooked orzo into the skillet with the vegetables. Drizzle the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over the mixture and gently toss everything together until well combined.
5. Add Cheese and Season:
Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until it’s melted and creates a creamy consistency. Finally, season your dish with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you enjoy a little heat!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from the heat and garnish your delicious orzo with fresh basil or parsley if you’d like. Serve it warm as a lovely side dish or enjoy it as a light main course!
Enjoy your bright, flavorful, and easy-to-make sun-dried tomato and spinach orzo!
FAQ for Easy Sun-Dried Tomato and Spinach Orzo
Can I Use Gluten-Free Orzo?
Absolutely! There are many gluten-free orzo options available made from rice or quinoa. Just cook it according to the package instructions to ensure perfect results!
Can I Make This Dish Vegan?
Yes! To make this orzo vegan, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative like nutritional yeast or vegan cheese. It will still be delicious and creamy!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or olive oil to keep it from drying out.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! This recipe is very versatile. Feel free to add in other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or even mushrooms based on your preferences or what you have on hand!
