Spinach Mushroom Orzo is a warm and cozy dish that combines tender orzo pasta with fresh spinach and delicious mushrooms. It’s creamy, comforting, and oh-so-good!
This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Plus, the best part? My kids don’t even notice the spinach! It’s a win-win. 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orzo Pasta: This tiny pasta looks like rice, making it perfect for this dish. If you don’t have orzo, you could swap it with small pasta shapes like ditalini or even quinoa for a gluten-free option.
Vegetable Broth: Using vegetable broth adds rich flavor. If you’re out, water works, but you could also use chicken broth for a non-vegetarian option. Adding a bit of soy sauce can enhance flavor in water.
Mushrooms: Cremini mushrooms are my favorite for depth, but button mushrooms or even shiitake can be delightful too. If you’re a mushroom fan, feel free to mix varieties for extra taste.
Fresh Spinach: Fresh is best for color and flavor. However, if you have frozen spinach, just thaw and squeeze out the excess water before adding it to the dish. It’ll work great, too!
Parmesan Cheese: This is optional but adds a lovely creaminess. If you’re dairy-free, consider using nutritional yeast for a cheese-like flavor or a vegan parmesan substitute.
How Do I Sauté Mushrooms Perfectly?
Sautéing mushrooms correctly ensures they become tender and develop a great flavor. The key is not to overcrowd the skillet, which helps them brown nicely.
- Heat your skillet over medium heat and add olive oil.
- Add sliced mushrooms in a single layer. Let them cook without stirring for a couple of minutes to promote browning.
- After they’ve browned, stir and continue cooking until tender, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
Remember, patience is key! Letting them brown without stirring too often is what gives that deep flavor.
How to Make Spinach Mushroom Orzo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Dish:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups vegetable broth (or water)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced (preferably cremini or button mushrooms)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
- Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Spinach Mushroom Orzo takes about 15 minutes for preparation and cooking. It’s quick to make, so you can enjoy it on a busy weekday or when you want something light and tasty!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Orzo:
Start by bringing the vegetable broth or water to a boil in a medium pot. Once boiling, add the orzo pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This will usually take about 8-10 minutes. After it’s cooked, drain the orzo and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Mushrooms:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and sauté them until they’re nicely browned and tender. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking!
3. Add Garlic and Spices:
Once the mushrooms are ready, stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until the garlic is fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
4. Cook the Spinach:
Now it’s time to add the chopped spinach to the skillet. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the spinach is wilted and bright green. It will shrink down quite a bit!
5. Combine Everything Together:
Take the cooked orzo and add it to the skillet with the mushroom and spinach mixture. Stir everything together well and season with salt and pepper to your taste. It’s a lovely blend of flavors!
6. Add Parmesan (Optional):
If you’d like to make it even tastier, sprinkle some grated parmesan cheese on top of the dish. Let it melt slightly for that extra flavor!
7. Garnish and Serve:
For a beautiful finishing touch, garnish your Spinach Mushroom Orzo with fresh thyme or parsley. Serve warm and enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Brown Rice or Another Grain Instead of Orzo?
Absolutely! While orzo gives a nice texture, you can substitute it with brown rice or another grain like quinoa. Keep in mind that cooking times will vary, so check the package instructions for the specific grain you choose and adjust the vegetable broth or water accordingly.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Recipe?
Yes, you can enhance this dish with other vegetables! Consider adding bell peppers, zucchini, or peas for extra color and nutrition. Just sauté them along with the mushrooms until they’re tender, and then proceed with the recipe as usual!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or warm on the stove with a splash of vegetable broth or water to bring back moisture.
Can I Make This Dish Vegan?
Absolutely! To keep it 100% vegan, just omit the parmesan cheese or replace it with a dairy-free alternative. Nutritional yeast can also be a great addition for a cheesy flavor without the dairy!
