Save to Pinterest A rich and comforting bowl of orzo pasta, simmered in a creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce with sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and a hint of Italian herbs. Perfect for a satisfying vegetarian meal.
I first made this creamy Tuscan orzo when craving something hearty yet simple on a chilly evening. The flavors melded together perfectly, and everyone wanted seconds.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 1 ½ cups (300 g) orzo pasta, 4 cups (960 ml) vegetable broth
- Vegetables: 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 small yellow onion (finely chopped), 3 garlic cloves (minced), 1 cup (50 g) sun-dried tomatoes (drained and sliced), 4 cups (120 g) baby spinach
- Dairy: ¾ cup (180 ml) heavy cream, ½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- Herbs & Seasoning: 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs, ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional), salt and black pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Prep the skillet:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook for 34 minutes until translucent.
- Sauté aromatics:
- Stir in garlic and sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Toast orzo:
- Add orzo to the skillet and stir for 2 minutes until lightly toasted.
- Simmer and cook pasta:
- Pour vegetable broth. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook 810 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is al dente and most liquid is absorbed.
- Make it creamy:
- Reduce heat to low. Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan, Italian herbs, and red pepper flakes. Mix well. Cook for 23 minutes until creamy.
- Wilt spinach and finish:
- Add baby spinach and stir until wilted. Season with salt and black pepper. Serve hot, garnish with extra Parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Save to Pinterest My family loves gathering around the table when I make this orzo. It's a dish that never fails to bring smiles and cozy conversation.
Required Tools
Large skillet, wooden spoon or spatula, measuring cups and spoons, knife, cutting board
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 430, Total Fat 18 g, Carbohydrates 54 g, Protein 13 g
Notes
For extra protein, add cooked white beans or grilled chicken (if not vegetarian). Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version. Pair with a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio.
Save to Pinterest This creamy Tuscan orzo is pure comfort and comes together in just one pan. Enjoy its richness and make it your own with favorite add-ins.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I know when the orzo is perfectly cooked?
Cook the orzo until it is al dente—firm to the bite but not hard. This usually takes 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- → Can I substitute the heavy cream for a lighter option?
Yes, you can use half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative for a lighter texture, though the sauce may be less rich.
- → What is the best way to wilt the spinach without overcooking it?
Add the spinach at the end of cooking and stir just until it’s wilted but still bright green, usually 1–2 minutes.
- → Can I add protein to this dish?
For added protein, stir in cooked white beans or grilled chicken—if not following a vegetarian diet—before serving.
- → What herbs enhance the Tuscan flavors in this dish?
Dried Italian herbs such as oregano, basil, and thyme complement the garlic and Parmesan, adding authentic Tuscan notes.