Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Orzo

Looking for a comforting, creamy dish that’s rich in flavor but simple to prepare? This Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Orzo is the perfect balance of tender orzo pasta, earthy mushrooms, and vibrant spinach, all coated in a creamy, savory sauce. It’s an easy-to-make recipe that’s both satisfying and delicious—ideal for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special meal to impress your guests.

Ingredients for Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Orzo:

• 1 cup orzo pasta

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 cup sliced mushrooms (cremini, button, or a mix)

• 2 cloves garlic (minced)

• 2 cups fresh spinach (washed and chopped)

• 1/2 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for a dairy-free option)

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for added richness)

• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional, for flavor depth)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

How to Make Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Orzo:

Cook the Orzo: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the orzo according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.

Sauté the Mushrooms: While the orzo is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté for 5-7 minutes, until they soften and release their moisture.

Add Garlic and Spinach: Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the mushrooms and cook for another minute until fragrant. Then, add the spinach and cook until it wilts down, about 2-3 minutes.

Make the Creamy Sauce: Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream. Stir to combine and let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg (if using) for an extra layer of flavor.

Combine the Orzo: Add the cooked orzo to the skillet, along with a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce. Stir everything together until the orzo is well coated in the creamy sauce. Add the Parmesan cheese (if using) and stir until melted and incorporated.

Serve: Serve the creamy spinach and mushroom orzo immediately, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.

Why This Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Orzo Works:

• Orzo Pasta: A small rice-shaped pasta that soaks up the creamy sauce perfectly, giving you a bite of comfort with each spoonful.

• Mushrooms: Mushrooms add an earthy depth of flavor, making the dish hearty and satisfying while remaining light and fresh.

• Spinach: Packed with iron and vitamins, spinach adds a nutritional boost and balances the richness of the creamy sauce.

• Heavy Cream: The cream adds a rich, velvety texture that brings everything together in a comforting way, but can be easily substituted for a lighter version like coconut cream.

A Perfectly Creamy Comfort Meal

This Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Orzo is the kind of dish that makes you feel at home. It’s comforting, easy to make, and packed with flavor, making it an ideal weeknight meal or a dish to impress guests. You can also experiment with different types of greens or mushrooms, depending on your preferences, for a personalized twist.