Description
This Creamy Tuscan Orzo Bowl is a comforting and flavorful one-pan dish featuring tender orzo pasta simmered in vegetable broth, combined with sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, and a rich creamy Parmesan sauce infused with Italian herbs and a hint of crushed red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. Perfect for a quick and satisfying vegetarian meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Orzo and Broth
- 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
- 4 cups vegetable broth
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and sliced
- 4 cups baby spinach
Creamy Sauce
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped yellow onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
- Add Garlic and Tomatoes: Stir in the minced garlic and sliced sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant, taking care not to burn it.
- Toast Orzo: Add the orzo pasta to the skillet. Toast it for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking and to enhance its nutty flavor.
- Simmer Orzo: Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 8 to 10 minutes until the orzo is al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Incorporate Cream and Cheese: Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, dried Italian herbs, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy.
- Add Spinach and Season: Fold in the baby spinach and stir until wilted. Season the dish with salt and black pepper to taste, adjusting according to your preference.
- Serve: Serve the creamy Tuscan orzo immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil if desired for extra richness.
Notes
- You can substitute vegetable broth with chicken broth if you prefer a non-vegetarian option.
- For a lighter version, replace heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy cream alternative.
- The crushed red pepper flakes are optional and can be omitted or adjusted for desired spice level.
- Make sure to stir frequently while simmering the orzo to prevent it from sticking to the pan.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: Creamy Tuscan Orzo, Orzo Pasta, Vegetarian Pasta Recipe, Sun-Dried Tomatoes, Spinach, Italian Herbs, One-Pan Dinner
