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Parmesan Creamy Tuscan Orzo

Parmesan Creamy Tuscan Orzo: Cozy Comfort in Every Bite

Parmesan Creamy Tuscan Orzo is a rich, one-pot dish that combines comforting flavors of creamy sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 400
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil Use extra virgin for better flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons Butter Vegan butter can be used as a dairy-free alternative.
  • 1 medium Onion Diced; sweet onion or shallots can be tried.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Minced; freshly minced for best flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning Can use a dried basil and oregano mix.
For the Sauce
  • ½ cup Sun-Dried Tomatoes Chopped; fresh tomatoes can be used if preferred.
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice Optional.
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard Skip for a milder flavor.
  • 4 cups Broth Chicken or vegetable broth.
  • 1 cup Cream Full-fat for richness, lighter alternatives can be substituted.
For the Finish
  • 1 cup Orzo Quick-cooking; can swap with quinoa or couscous.
  • 1 cup Parmesan Freshly grated is best.
  • 2 cups Spinach Can substitute with kale or other greens.
  • 1 handful Basil Fresh for garnish; parsley can also be used.
  • to taste Red Pepper Flakes Adjust based on heat preference.

Equipment

  • large skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
  2. Add 1 diced onion to the skillet and sauté for 3–4 minutes until translucent.
  3. Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves and 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning, cooking for another 30 seconds.
  4. Add ½ cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, and 1 cup of orzo to the skillet.
  5. Pour in 4 cups of broth and 1 cup of cream, stirring to combine well.
  6. Reduce the heat to low and let the orzo simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring frequently.
  7. Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan, 2 cups of fresh spinach, and chopped basil.
  8. Cover the skillet for 2-3 minutes to allow the spinach to wilt.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 42gProtein: 12gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 1500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Stir frequently to prevent sticking and adjust seasonings to taste. Use fresh ingredients for the best outcomes.

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