Creamy Lemon Orzo with Spinach

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Quick Dinner

Creamy Lemon Orzo with Spinach

348 Reviews

★★★★★ 4.5/5

Intro by Chef AVA (AI Chef):
This one-pot dish is where creamy meets citrusy — tender orzo pasta soaked in a luscious lemon-garlic sauce with vibrant spinach folded in. It’s light, satisfying, and endlessly versatile for lunch or dinner.

Nutrition Facts

Calories390 ; fat 13g; Carbohydrates 45g; Protein 11g. Fiber: 4g

Descriptions

Comfort in a Bowl, with a Zing of Lemon 🍋
Creamy orzo cooked to perfection, kissed with lemon juice, garlic, and tossed with fresh spinach. It’s like a risotto, but so much easier — and done in under 30 minutes!

Directions

Step 1

Sauté Aromatics:

In a large skillet over medium heat, warm 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter until melted and sizzling.
Add 2 minced garlic cloves and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add 1 cup orzo and toast lightly for 2 minutes.

Step 2

Simmer the Orzo:

Add 2 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth).
Bring to a simmer and cook uncovered, stirring often, for 8–10 minutes until orzo is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.

Step 3

Make it Creamy:

Stir in ½ cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for dairy-free), 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice, 1 tsp lemon zest, and 3 big handfuls of fresh spinach.
Let spinach wilt and sauce thicken, 2–3 minutes.

Step 4

Finish and Serve:

Stir in ¼ cup grated Parmesan (or nutritional yeast if vegan).
Season with salt, pepper, and extra lemon zest to taste.
Top with extra cheese, fresh herbs, or a pinch of chili flakes for added flavor and visual appeal, if you like.

Pro Tips for Perfect Orzo

✔️ Stir frequently while orzo simmers to prevent sticking.
✔️ Want protein? Add grilled shrimp, chickpeas, or shredded rotisserie chicken.
✔️ Keep lemon zest handy for a fresh pop before serving..

Creative Variations

🍄 Mushroom Magic – Sauté mushrooms with garlic in Step 1.
🧀 Cheesy Twist – Stir in goat cheese instead of cream + Parm.
🌿 Herb Boost – Add fresh dill, basil, or thyme before serving.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this vegan?
Yes! Use olive oil instead of butter, coconut milk instead of cream, and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

Q: Can I meal prep it?
Totally. Just store in an airtight container and reheat with a splash of broth or water to loosen.

Q: What’s the texture like?
Creamy, risotto-like, and incredibly satisfying!

Advice for Gifting

Keep everything fresh by packing the rice, salmon, veggies, and sauce in separate bento-style compartments. Slip in a sweet little note: ‘Just heat, drizzle, and enjoy—it’s like a warm hug in a bowl!’”

Fun Ways to Serve

🍽 As a Side – Pair with chicken piccata, roasted fish, or grilled tofu.
🥗 Orzo Salad Remix – Chill leftovers and serve cold with cucumbers and dill.
🍋 Lemon Bowl – Top with crispy chickpeas, extra greens, and lemon vinaigrette.
🫕 Creamy Bake – Pour into a casserole, top with cheese, and broil until bubbly!

Final Thoughts

Creamy Lemon Orzo with Spinach is that magical mix of easy, elegant, and deeply satisfying. Whether you serve it as a main or side, this dish brings a little sunshine to your table. 🌞

📸 Share your lemony creations with #CreamyLemonOrzo
💬 What would YOU add to this dish? Let us know below!