Spinach Mushroom Orzo

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🥘 What is Spinach Mushroom Orzo?

Q: What is Spinach Mushroom Orzo?
A: It’s a creamy, risotto-like pasta dish made with orzo (rice-shaped pasta), sautéed mushrooms, fresh spinach, garlic, and cheese. It’s typically cooked in one pan, making it a quick and hearty vegetarian meal.

🧂 Ingredients

Q: What ingredients do I need?

A: For about 4 servings, you’ll need:

  • 1 cup orzo pasta

  • 2 tbsp olive oil or butter

  • 1 small onion, finely chopped

  • 3–4 cloves garlic, minced

  • 8 oz mushrooms (cremini, button, or mixed), sliced

  • 2 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)

  • 2–3 cups baby spinach

  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or more to taste)

  • 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional for extra creaminess)

  • Salt & black pepper to taste

  • Optional: crushed red pepper flakes, lemon zest, fresh herbs (thyme, parsley)

🍳 Instructions

Q: How do I make it?

A:

  1. Sauté Aromatics & Mushrooms

    • Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.

    • Add onions and sauté 2–3 minutes until soft.

    • Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds.

    • Add mushrooms; cook 5–7 minutes until browned and moisture evaporates.

  2. Toast Orzo

    • Stir in the orzo and toast for 1–2 minutes in the pan with the mushrooms.

  3. Add Broth & Simmer

    • Pour in broth and bring to a simmer.

    • Reduce heat, cover, and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed.

  4. Add Spinach & Finish

    • Stir in spinach and cook until wilted.

    • Mix in Parmesan cheese and cream (if using).

    • Season with salt, pepper, and any optional add-ins like red pepper flakes or lemon zest.

  5. Serve Hot

    • Garnish with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs. Serve immediately!

🔄 Substitutions & Variations

Q: Can I make it vegan?
A: Yes! Use olive oil instead of butter, vegetable broth, omit cream or use coconut milk/oat cream, and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

Q: Can I add protein?
A: Absolutely. Add grilled chicken, tofu, or white beans.

Q: What mushrooms work best?
A: Cremini (baby bella) are ideal for flavor, but button mushrooms or a wild mix work too.

🧊 Storage & Reheating

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Q: How do I reheat it?
A: Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of broth or cream to loosen it, or microwave it covered with a bit of water.

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