Save A rich and comforting bowl of orzo pasta simmered in a creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce with sun-dried tomatoes spinach and a hint of Italian herbs. Perfect for a satisfying vegetarian meal.
I first prepared this Creamy Tuscan Orzo Bowl after returning from a trip to Florence where I was inspired by the savory flavors and vibrant produce of Tuscany. It quickly became my family's go-to comfort meal on busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 1 ½ cups (300 g) orzo pasta 4 cups (960 ml) vegetable broth
- Vegetables: 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 small yellow onion finely chopped 3 garlic cloves minced 1 cup (50 g) sun-dried tomatoes drained and sliced 4 cups (120 g) baby spinach
- Dairy: ¾ cup (180 ml) heavy cream ½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- Herbs & Seasoning: 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional) salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Vegetables:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for 3 minutes until translucent. Stir in garlic and sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Toast Orzo:
- Add orzo to the skillet and toast for 2 minutes stirring frequently.
- Simmer:
- Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook stirring occasionally for 8 minutes or until orzo is al dente and most liquid is absorbed.
- Add Dairy and Season:
- Reduce heat to low. Stir in heavy cream Parmesan Italian herbs and red pepper flakes if using. Mix well and cook for 2 minutes until the sauce is creamy.
- Add Spinach:
- Add baby spinach and stir until wilted. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Serve:
- Serve hot garnished with extra Parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Save My kids love this orzo dish especially when I sprinkle extra Parmesan on their bowls. We often pair it with garlic bread and a simple salad for a cozy family dinner.
Required Tools
Large skillet wooden spoon or spatula measuring cups and spoons knife and cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains milk (Parmesan cheese heavy cream) and wheat (orzo pasta). Check packaging for additional allergens.
Nutritional Information
Each serving: 430 calories 18 g total fat 54 g carbohydrates 13 g protein.
Save This orzo bowl is a creamy crowdpleaser full of flavor and ready in no time. Enjoy it fresh or reheat for an easy lunch the next day.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I substitute orzo with another pasta?
You can use small pasta shapes such as ditalini or farfalline if orzo is unavailable, but cooking time may vary slightly.
- → Is it possible to make this dairy-free?
Use plant-based cream and vegan Parmesan to replace the dairy for a creamy texture and savory flavor.
- → What greens can be used instead of spinach?
Baby kale or chopped Swiss chard are great alternatives and will also wilt beautifully into the creamy sauce.
- → How can I add more protein?
Fold in cooked white beans or top with grilled tofu for enhanced protein while keeping the dish vegetarian.
- → What wine pairs best with this dish?
A crisp white wine such as Pinot Grigio enhances the creamy and herbal notes of the bowl.
- → Can leftover bowl be reheated?
Gently reheat in a skillet with a splash of broth or cream to restore its creamy consistency.