Creamy Tuscan Orzo (Printable)

Tender orzo simmered with sun-dried tomatoes and spinach in a rich Parmesan cream sauce with Tuscan herbs.

# What You'll Need:

→ Pasta

01 - 1 cup orzo pasta

→ Dairy

02 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
03 - 3/4 cup heavy cream
04 - 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

→ Vegetables

05 - 1 cup baby spinach
06 - 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped
07 - 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
08 - 2 cloves garlic, minced

→ Broth

09 - 2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth

→ Seasoning

10 - 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
11 - 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes
12 - Salt and black pepper to taste

→ Garnish

13 - Fresh basil leaves
14 - Extra grated Parmesan cheese

# Method:

01 - Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook 2-3 minutes until translucent.
02 - Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
03 - Add orzo pasta to the skillet, stirring constantly for 1 minute to lightly toast the grains.
04 - Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes and pour in vegetable broth. Bring mixture to a gentle simmer.
05 - Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is al dente and most liquid is absorbed.
06 - Pour in heavy cream, dried thyme, and chili flakes. Mix well and simmer 2-3 minutes until sauce thickens.
07 - Fold in baby spinach and Parmesan cheese. Stir until spinach wilts and cheese melts completely. Season with salt and pepper.
08 - Remove from heat immediately. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves and additional Parmesan if desired.

# Insider Tips:

01 -
  • It comes together in one pan, meaning less cleanup and more time actually enjoying your evening
  • The way the orzo absorbs all those Tuscan flavors makes every bite feel like an Italian vacation
02 -
  • The sauce continues thickening as it sits off the heat, so don't panic if it looks slightly looser than you want initially
  • Sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil need draining, but save that oil for another use, it's liquid gold
03 -
  • Grate your Parmesan fresh from a block, the pre-grated stuff has anti caking agents that prevent smooth melting
  • Warm your cream slightly before adding it to the hot pasta, which prevents any potential separation

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