Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Orzo

Italian · Autumn · 30 min · Serves 4 · By Lesapor Test Kitchen

This creamy mushroom and spinach orzo brings the essence of Italian comfort food to your table in just 30 minutes. With its velvety texture and earthy flavors, this dish is perfect for an autumn evening. Simple enough for a beginner, yet rewarding for more experienced cooks.

Ingredients

• Orzo pasta
• Olive oil
• Cremini mushrooms, sliced
• Garlic cloves, minced
• Baby spinach
• Heavy cream
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Lemon zest
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped

Method

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add orzo and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the cremini mushrooms and cook for 5-7 minutes until they are browned and tender.
3. Add the minced garlic to the mushrooms and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Stir in the baby spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
5. Reduce the heat to low and add the heavy cream, stirring until the mixture is well combined. Add the cooked orzo and mix until fully coated.
6. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and lemon zest. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.