Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 2½ cups low sodium chicken broth
- 1½ cups uncooked orzo pasta (about 278 grams)
- ¼ cup sun dried tomatoes (packed in oil, drained and sliced)
- 2 cloves garlic (finely minced)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Finishing Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh spinach (roughly chopped)
- ½ cup cream (any kind – heavier cream will give richer flavor, light cream will be thinner)
- ¼ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium skillet, add the low sodium chicken broth, uncooked orzo pasta, sliced sun dried tomatoes, finely minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Cook Orzo: Place the skillet over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer. Stir often to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. You may cover the skillet or leave it uncovered. Cook until most of the liquid has been absorbed and the orzo is tender but not mushy. If the liquid evaporates before the pasta is fully cooked, add a splash more chicken broth as needed.
- Add Greens and Cream: Stir in the roughly chopped fresh spinach, cream, shredded Parmesan cheese, and fresh parsley into the cooked orzo mixture. Mix until the spinach wilts and the cheese melts, creating a creamy and vibrant dish.
- Serve: Remove from heat and serve immediately while warm for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- You can substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth to make this recipe vegetarian.
- For a lighter dish, use light cream or omit the cream and increase chicken broth slightly.
- Adding a squeeze of lemon juice at the end can brighten the flavors nicely.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce.
- For extra protein, consider adding cooked chicken or white beans.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian