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Easy Cheesy Orzo

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This creamy, cheesy orzo recipe combines tender orzo pasta with a nutritious handful of spinach, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, freshly cracked black pepper and a hint of crushed red pepper. The result is a delectable side dish that’s both comforting and a little zesty.

  • Total Time: 20 mins.
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 8 ounces orzo
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 4 ounces freshly grated parmesan cheese
  • Freshly cracked black pepper, for garnish
  • Crushed red pepper, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring a pot of water to a boil, adding a dash of salt and 1 tablespoon of the extra-virgin olive oil. Cook the orzo according to the package directions until al dente, about 8 minutes.
  2. Drain the cooked pasta in a colander and immediately return to the hot pot. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of extra-virgin olive oil and the fresh spinach, stirring to combine. The pasta will still be hot, which should nicely wilt the spinach.
  3. Stir in the grated parmesan cheese. Mix well until the cheese has melted and the orzo is creamy. 
  4. Garnish the pasta with freshly cracked black pepper and crushed red pepper (optional). Enjoy immediately.
  • Author: Cortney Sparkman
  • Prep Time: 5 mins.
  • Cook Time: 15 mins.
  • Category: Side Dishes
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean Inspired
  • Diet: Vegetarian
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