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–+ servings
Parmesan Creamy Tuscan Orzo

Parmesan Creamy Tuscan Orzo: Comfort in Every Bite

This Parmesan Creamy Tuscan Orzo is a quick and easy one-pot recipe that blends rich flavors and vibrant greens, perfect for comfort food lovers.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil substitute with vegetable oil for a neutral taste
  • 1 tablespoon butter use unsalted butter to control salt levels
  • 1 medium onion diced; shallots can be used for a milder flavor
  • 3 cloves garlic minced; fresh is preferred
For the Flavor
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning dried basil or oregano can be used as alternatives
  • ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes chopped; swap with fresh tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a milder taste
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice white wine vinegar can substitute if lemon is unavailable
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard yellow mustard works as a substitute if needed
For the Pasta and Sauce
  • 1 cup orzo opt for any small pasta shape, monitor cooking times
  • 3 cups broth chicken or vegetable; vegetable broth is perfect for a vegetarian option
  • 1 cup cream half-and-half is a lighter alternative
  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese freshly grated melts beautifully
For the Finishing Touches
  • 1 cup spinach fresh; can be swapped with kale or Swiss chard
  • ½ cup basil fresh herb; use dried basil in a pinch

Equipment

  • Large skillet

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat until butter melts completely.
  2. Add diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent.
  3. Stir in minced garlic and Italian seasoning, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and orzo, stirring for 2-3 minutes.
  5. Pour in broth and cream, increase the heat to bring to a gentle boil, about 3-5 minutes.
  6. Lower the heat to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, stirring frequently.
  7. Remove skillet from heat and gently fold in spinach and Parmesan cheese.
  8. Taste and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes before serving warm.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 12gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 1500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

Stir often to prevent sticking and adjust consistency if needed with broth or water. Use fresh ingredients for enhanced flavor.

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