Save to Pinterest 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 made this creamy Tuscan orzo bowl as a weeknight dinner for my family when we were craving something cozy yet easy. Everyone loved the combination of sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach blended into the creamy Parmesan sauce.
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
- Prep and Sauté:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for 3:4 minutes until translucent.
- Add Garlic and Tomatoes:
- Stir in garlic and sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Toast Orzo:
- Add orzo to the skillet and toast for 2 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Simmer the Pasta:
- Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 8:10 minutes or until orzo is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Make it Creamy:
- Reduce heat to low. Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan, Italian herbs, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well and cook for 2:3 minutes until the sauce is creamy.
- Finish and Serve:
- Add baby spinach and stir until wilted. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Save to Pinterest When I served this dish to my grandmother, she told me it reminded her of family meals in Tuscany:warming, wholesome, and bursting with flavor. Now it is a requested favorite at our gatherings.
Required Tools
Large skillet, wooden spoon or spatula, measuring cups and spoons, knife, and cutting board help make preparation smooth and easy.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 430 calories, 18 g fat, 54 g carbohydrates, 13 g protein.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio for a complete Italian-inspired meal.
Save to Pinterest This creamy Tuscan orzo is the perfect comfort food for busy nights:rich, full of flavor, and ready in half an hour or less.
Ask About This Recipe
- → How do I achieve the creamy texture in this dish?
Simmering orzo in vegetable broth followed by stirring in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese creates a rich and velvety sauce that coats the pasta thoroughly.
- → Can I substitute the vegetable broth?
Yes, chicken broth can be used for a non-vegetarian option or water with seasoning for a lighter taste, but vegetable broth adds the best depth of flavor.
- → What is the best way to cook the spinach in this dish?
Add fresh baby spinach towards the end of cooking and stir just until wilted to maintain its vibrant color and tender texture.
- → How long should the orzo simmer to reach the right texture?
Simmer for about 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the orzo is al dente and liquid mostly absorbed.
- → Can I add protein to this dish?
Yes, adding cooked white beans or grilled chicken enhances protein content while complementing the creamy sauce and vegetables.