Description
A quick and easy one-pan meal featuring buttery garlic orzo with fresh spinach, ready in 30 minutes and packed with flavor and nutrients.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup orzo (190g)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (45g)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced (about 2 teaspoons)
- 4 cups baby spinach (about 120g)
- 2 ½ cups chicken or vegetable broth (600ml)
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (50g)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (15ml), optional
- Salt to taste (start with ½ teaspoon)
- Black pepper to taste
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional
Instructions
- Heat the butter over medium heat in a large skillet.
- Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir constantly for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
- Add the orzo to the skillet and stir into the garlic butter. Toast for about 2 minutes until golden and nutty.
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring to a gentle boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover with a lid slightly ajar, and simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally until orzo is tender but still slightly firm.
- Stir in the baby spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted and bright green.
- Remove skillet from heat. Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and lemon juice.
- Adjust salt and pepper to taste. If too thick, add a splash of broth or water to loosen.
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with extra Parmesan, freshly cracked black pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil.
Notes
Do not rush the toasting step for better flavor. Use low heat when simmering to prevent sticking. Fresh garlic is preferred over jarred. Save some broth to loosen the dish if it dries out. Freshly grated Parmesan melts better than pre-grated. For vegan version, substitute butter with olive oil, use vegetable broth, and nutritional yeast instead of cheese. Add fresh herbs like parsley or basil before serving for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 1 cup cooked o
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 1
- Sodium: 420
- Fat: 12
- Saturated Fat: 7
- Carbohydrates: 38
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 8
Keywords: one-pan, garlic butter, orzo, spinach, quick dinner, easy recipe, weeknight meal, comfort food