Easy Cheesy Orzo
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.
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Ingredients
- 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
- 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.
- 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.
- Stir in the grated parmesan cheese. Mix well until the cheese has melted and the orzo is creamy.
- Garnish the pasta with freshly cracked black pepper and crushed red pepper (optional). Enjoy immediately.
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