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Creamy Garlic Spinach Orzo

This dish features tender orzo pasta simmered in a creamy garlic sauce, with wilted spinach stirred in for vibrant flavor. The mixture achieves a velvety, luscious texture with a smooth appearance, topped with fresh herbs for garnish.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 430

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup orzo pasta uncooked
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 cups fresh spinach roughly chopped
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 cup parmesan cheese grated
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Large skillet or frying pan
  • Cooking spoon or spatula
  • measuring cups and spoons
  • Chopping board
  • Chef's knife

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions until just tender, about 8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute, until it just begins to turn golden brown.
  3. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the mixture slightly thickens and turns creamy.
  4. Add the cooked orzo to the skillet, stirring to coat evenly with the creamy garlic sauce. Cook for 2 minutes until the pasta is heated through.
  5. Incorporate the chopped spinach into the skillet, stirring until it begins to wilt, about 2 minutes. Ensure the spinach reduces in volume and turns a vibrant green.
  6. Stir in the grated parmesan cheese until melted and well integrated, creating a silky, smooth sauce with the pasta and spinach.
  7. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning as desired.
  8. Cook for an additional minute, allowing flavors to meld and sauce to thicken slightly. The final dish should be creamy, luscious, and well-coated on the pasta.
  9. Remove from heat and transfer the Creamy Garlic Spinach Orzo to serving dishes. Garnish with extra parmesan or fresh herbs if desired.