If you’re searching for a dish that brings comfort, flavor, and a touch of elegance to your table, look no further than Mushroom and Spinach Orzo. This recipe ticks all the boxes: it’s quick enough for busy weeknights, yet impressive enough for dinner guests. Every bite offers creamy orzo, earthy mushrooms, and vibrant spinach, all tied together with savory Parmesan and fresh herbs. Not only is it a fantastic vegetarian option, but it’s also a canvas for creative twists—truly the kind of meal you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Mushroom and Spinach Orzo is how it elevates simple, everyday ingredients into a memorable meal. Each component plays a role, whether it’s adding richness, a pop of color, or that irresistible umami note from mushrooms. Gather these pantry staples and you’re well on your way to something special.
- Orzo Pasta: The tiny rice-shaped pasta is the star here, soaking up all the creamy, savory flavors while providing a delightful bite.
- Olive Oil: Adds richness and the foundation for sautéing your aromatics and mushrooms.
- Unsalted Butter: Blends with the olive oil for extra depth and a creamy finish.
- Garlic Cloves: Brings a warm, aromatic kick that enlivens the whole dish.
- Shallot: More delicate than onion, shallots lend subtle sweetness and complexity.
- Mushrooms: Choose cremini or button mushrooms for earthiness and a satisfying, meaty texture.
- Baby Spinach: Wilts into the orzo, adding color and a burst of freshness without overpowering.
- Salt: Essential for bringing out the flavors of each ingredient.
- Black Pepper: Balances out the richness with gentle heat.
- Dried Thyme: Infuses the orzo with Mediterranean flair and herby aroma.
- Parmesan Cheese: Adds saltiness and a creamy, savory finish that’s downright addictive.
- Fresh Parsley: A final sprinkle makes the flavors and colors pop.
- Lemon Juice (optional): A squeeze brightens everything up, making each forkful sing.
How to Make Mushroom and Spinach Orzo
Step 1: Cook the Orzo
Start by bringing a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the orzo according to package directions until it’s perfectly al dente. This pasta cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it to avoid mushiness. Once done, drain the orzo and set it aside; don’t worry if it cools a bit—it will warm up beautifully when tossed with the veggies later.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
While the orzo cooks, grab your favorite large skillet and add the olive oil and butter over medium heat. As soon as the butter melts, toss in your finely chopped shallot and minced garlic. Stir and sauté for about 1–2 minutes until everything smells fragrant—the base of any great Mushroom and Spinach Orzo starts right here.
Step 3: Cook the Mushrooms
Add your sliced mushrooms to the skillet and season with salt, pepper, and dried thyme. This is the moment when your kitchen starts to smell irresistible! Let the mushrooms cook undisturbed for a few minutes so they brown nicely, then stir occasionally until they become golden, tender, and have released most of their moisture, about 6–7 minutes.
Step 4: Add the Spinach
Once the mushrooms are perfect, pile the baby spinach into the skillet. Gently toss and stir until the leaves just begin to wilt, which should take only 1–2 minutes. The spinach melds with the mushrooms and infuses the orzo with extra color and nutrients.
Step 5: Combine and Finish
Return your cooked orzo to the skillet and toss everything together, ensuring each grain is coated in all that savory goodness. Stir in the grated Parmesan and fresh parsley—the cheese melts into the orzo, adding that luscious creaminess. If you love a bright finish, squeeze over the optional lemon juice before serving. Your Mushroom and Spinach Orzo is now ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Mushroom and Spinach Orzo
Garnishes
Elevate your serving game by topping your Mushroom and Spinach Orzo with an extra shower of grated Parmesan, a sprinkling of chopped parsley, or a few fresh-cracked black pepper grinds. For a splash of color and freshness, you can also add lemon zest or a light drizzle of good olive oil just before serving.
Side Dishes
While Mushroom and Spinach Orzo shines as a meal on its own, it also pairs beautifully with several side dishes. Try serving it alongside a crisp green salad, roasted asparagus, or garlic bread for a complete dinner. If you’re in the mood for more protein, a piece of grilled chicken or a scoop of white beans makes an excellent addition.
Creative Ways to Present
Get playful by serving your Mushroom and Spinach Orzo in individual bowls for a dinner party or family-style in a big, beautiful serving dish. For a fun twist, try filling roasted bell pepper halves or baked acorn squash with the orzo mixture for a stunning vegetarian main course. You can even serve it chilled as part of a Mediterranean pasta salad buffet.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Mushroom and Spinach Orzo keeps remarkably well in the refrigerator. Transfer any extras to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. The flavors meld even more over time, making the leftovers delicious for quick lunches or last-minute suppers.
Freezing
While orzo and veggies generally freeze well, keep in mind that the texture of spinach can change slightly after freezing. If you’d like to freeze Mushroom and Spinach Orzo, let it cool completely, portion into freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
For the tastiest results, reheat Mushroom and Spinach Orzo gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or vegetable broth to restore creaminess. You can also microwave it in short bursts, stirring between intervals, until heated through. Add a fresh sprinkle of Parmesan and parsley to revive just-made flavor.
FAQs
Can I make Mushroom and Spinach Orzo vegan?
Absolutely! Simply swap in plant-based butter and a vegan Parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast. Be sure to use a vegan pasta, and the dish will still be brimming with comfort and flavor.
Which mushrooms work best for this dish?
Cremini and white button mushrooms are perfect for Mushroom and Spinach Orzo, but you can experiment with shiitake, portobello, or a wild mushroom mix for extra depth and character.
Can I add protein to Mushroom and Spinach Orzo?
Definitely! Stir in cooked chicken, shrimp, or a handful of white beans for added protein, making the dish even heartier without losing its signature flavor.
How do I make it creamier?
For a lusciously creamy Mushroom and Spinach Orzo, try stirring in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese right at the end. It transforms the texture and adds extra richness.
Can I use another type Main Course or Side Dish
Orzo is ideal for this dish, but small pasta shapes like ditalini or small shells could work in a pinch. Just keep an eye on cooking times and adjust as needed.
Final Thoughts
I can’t wait for you to dive into the comfort and deliciousness of Mushroom and Spinach Orzo. Whether you enjoy it for a quick weeknight dinner or as a crowd-pleaser at your next gathering, it’s a dish that’s sure to end up on repeat in your kitchen. Happy cooking!
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Mushroom and Spinach Orzo Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful and easy-to-make Mushroom and Spinach Orzo recipe that combines the earthy flavors of mushrooms and the freshness of spinach with a hint of Parmesan cheese and herbs, all tossed with orzo pasta.
Ingredients
Orzo Pasta:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
Sautéed Mushrooms and Spinach:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 small shallot, finely chopped
- 2 cups mushrooms, sliced (cremini or button)
- 3 cups baby spinach
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon dried thyme
Finishing Touches:
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- juice of ½ lemon (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Orzo: Cook the orzo according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Mushrooms and Spinach: In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter. Sauté shallot and garlic until fragrant. Add mushrooms, salt, pepper, and thyme; cook until mushrooms are browned. Stir in spinach until wilted.
- Combine: Add cooked orzo to the skillet. Mix in Parmesan cheese and parsley. Squeeze lemon juice if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
- For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of cream or a spoonful of cream cheese.
- To boost protein, incorporate cooked chicken or white beans.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course or Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 310mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
