Prep Time 10 mins
Cook Time 15 mins
Total Time 25 mins
Cooking Method:
Cuisine: ,
Courses: ,
Difficulty: Beginner
Cooking Temp: 180  C
Servings: 4
Best Season: All Seasons
Description

This Spinach & Sun-Dried Tomato Orzo is a quick and flavorful pasta dish featuring tender orzo, vibrant spinach, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes. Tossed in a light garlic and Parmesan sauce, this meal is perfect for busy weeknights or as a side dish for any occasion. It’s easy, nutritious, and bursting with Mediterranean flavors!

Ingredients
    For the Orzo:
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 4 cups water or vegetable broth
  • 0.5 tsp salt
    • For the Sauce & Mix-ins:
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 0.5 cup sun-dried tomatoes, julienned (drained if in oil)
  • 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
  • 0.5 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • 0.25 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • Salt & pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp fresh basil, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
    Cook the Orzo
  1. 1
    In a medium saucepan, bring water or vegetable broth to a boil. Add the orzo and salt. Cook according to package instructions (about 8–10 minutes) until al dente. Drain and set aside.
    2. Sauté the Garlic & Sun-Dried Tomatoes
  2. 2
    In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
    3. Add the Spinach & Seasoning
  3. 3
    Stir in the chopped spinach and red pepper flakes. Cook until the spinach is wilted, about 2 minutes.
    4. Combine with Orzo
  4. 4
    Add the cooked orzo to the skillet and mix well. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Toss everything until evenly combined.
    5. Garnish & Serve
  5. 5
    Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Note
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating: Warm in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture.
  • Variations: Add grilled chicken or shrimp for protein. Use feta instead of Parmesan for a different flavor.
  • Make it Vegan: Replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast or a dairy-free alternative.
Keywords: Quick, Easy, Healthy, Vegetarian, Mediterranean
Read it online: https://petitepanini.com/recipe/spinach-sun-dried-tomato-orzo-recipe/