🍄 Spinach Mushroom Orzo Recipe 🍝

🍄 Spinach Mushroom Orzo Recipe 🍝

A creamy and savory dish featuring mushrooms, spinach, and orzo pasta, ideal for a quick dinner or a flavorful side!

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🛒 Ingredients:

• 1 cup orzo pasta 🍝
• 2 tbsp olive oil 🫒
• 1 small onion, finely chopped 🧅
• 3 garlic cloves, minced 🧄
• 2 cups mushrooms, sliced (cremini, button, or your favorite type) 🍄
• 4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped 🌿
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated 🧀
• 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional, for extra creaminess) 🥛
• 2 cups vegetable broth (or water) 🍲
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme 🌿
• Salt and pepper to taste 🧂
• Fresh parsley for garnish 🌿

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👩‍🍳 Instructions:

1. Cook the Orzo:

• Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to the package instructions (usually around 7-8 minutes) until al dente. Drain and set aside. 🍝

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2. Sauté the Vegetables:

• In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
• Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened. 🧅
• Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. 🧄

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3. Cook the Mushrooms:

• Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet, cooking until they’re browned and have released their moisture, about 5-6 minutes. 🍄
• Season with salt, pepper, and dried thyme. 🌿

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4. Add the Spinach:

• Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. 🌿

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5. Combine with Orzo:

• Stir the cooked orzo into the skillet with the mushrooms and spinach.
• Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Cook for about 2 minutes, allowing the orzo to absorb the flavors. 🍲

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6. Finish the Dish:

• Stir in the Parmesan cheese and heavy cream (if using) to create a creamy texture. 🧀🥛
• Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary.

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7. Serve:

• Garnish with fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a touch of elegance. 🌿🧀
• Serve hot as a light main course or alongside grilled chicken, fish, or a simple salad.

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💡 Tips & Variations:

• For extra flavor: Add a splash of white wine to deglaze the pan before adding the broth.
• Make it vegan: Skip the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, and use a plant-based alternative for a dairy-free version.
• Add protein: Toss in some grilled chicken or shrimp to make this a heartier meal.

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This Spinach Mushroom Orzo is creamy, comforting, and full of flavor — a perfect way to enjoy veggies in a cozy, satisfying dish! Enjoy! 😋🍽️🤩😍