Save to Pinterest A rich and comforting bowl of orzo pasta, simmered in a creamy garlic:Parmesan sauce with sun:dried tomatoes, spinach, and a hint of Italian herbs. Perfect for a satisfying vegetarian meal.
I first made this Creamy Tuscan Orzo Bowl after craving both comfort food and bright flavors. The blend of sun:dried tomatoes and fresh spinach always reminds me of my travels through Tuscany.
Ingredients
- Orzo pasta: 1 ½ cups (300 g)
- Vegetable broth: 4 cups (960 ml)
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
- Yellow onion: 1 small, finely chopped
- Garlic cloves: 3, minced
- Sun:dried tomatoes: 1 cup (50 g), drained and sliced
- Baby spinach: 4 cups (120 g)
- Heavy cream: ¾ cup (180 ml)
- Parmesan cheese: ½ cup (50 g), grated
- Dried Italian herbs: 1 teaspoon
- Crushed red pepper flakes: ½ teaspoon (optional)
- Salt and black pepper: to taste
Instructions
- Sauté vegetables:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook for 3,4 minutes until translucent.
- Add aromatics:
- Stir in garlic and sun:dried tomatoes. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Toast orzo:
- Add orzo to the skillet and toast for 2 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Simmer pasta:
- Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 8,10 minutes or until orzo is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Make it creamy:
- Reduce heat to low. Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan, Italian herbs, and red pepper flakes. Mix well and cook for 2,3 minutes until the sauce is creamy.
- Add spinach:
- Add baby spinach and stir until wilted. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Serving:
- Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Save to Pinterest My family loves gathering around the table for this dish on cool evenings. Even the kids enjoy eating spinach when it's in this creamy sauce.
Required Tools
Large skillet, wooden spoon or spatula, measuring cups and spoons, knife and cutting board
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 430, Total Fat: 18 g, Carbohydrates: 54 g, Protein: 13 g
Notes
For extra protein, add cooked white beans or grilled chicken (if not vegetarian). Use half:and:half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version. Pair with a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio.
Save to Pinterest This Creamy Tuscan Orzo Bowl brings comfort and a taste of Italy to your table. Enjoy every creamy forkful.
Common Recipe Questions
- → What type of pasta is orzo?
Orzo is a small, rice-shaped pasta made from wheat, commonly used in Italian cuisine for soups, salads, and creamy dishes.
- → Can I use another green instead of spinach?
Yes, kale or Swiss chard can be substituted for spinach, just chop them finely and add a little extra cooking time.
- → How do I make the dish lighter?
Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or use a splash of milk for a lighter sauce while maintaining a creamy texture.
- → What is a good pairing for this bowl?
This creamy orzo goes well with a crisp white wine such as Pinot Grigio or a side of crusty bread.
- → How can I add protein to this meal?
Add cooked white beans for vegetarian protein, or grilled chicken for a non-vegetarian option if desired.
- → Does this dish contain common allergens?
It includes both wheat (from orzo pasta) and milk (from Parmesan and cream). Check tomato packaging for sulfites.