Creamy Lemon Spinach Orzo

Creamy Lemon Spinach Orzo is a refreshing and light side dish or even served as a main course. Easily add-in other vegetables, herbs, fish, or meat to mix it up. Creamy Lemon Spinach Orzo is delicious served with any meat, fish, or chicken. The whole family will love this recipe!!!

The first time I had orzo pasta was years ago when I lived in Bologna, Italy. At first I thought it was rice or a grain but it is actually pasta. Orzo can be served warm or cold as a creamy dish like risotto or a cold pasta salad. The grocery stores sell orzo made with white or whole durum wheat varieties. Creamy Lemon Spinach Orzo is delicious served as a side dish to an everyday meal or with a fancy special occasion dinner. I love to eat it as a light lunch with a mixed green salad or with some grilled chicken.

WHAT IS ORZO?

Orzo means “barley” in Italian and is known as a soup pasta because it resembles a grain. But it is very versatile and the possibilities are endless in both main courses and side dishes. It is made with semolina flour from durum wheat. It is pasta, so don’t be fooled because it will cook faster than rice or grains.

INGREDIENTS

• Vegetable or chicken stock
• Milk, whole milk prefered
• Parmesan cheese
• Baby spinach
• Lemon
• Kosher salt
• Fresh ground pepper

HOW TO MAKE CREAMY LEMON SPINACH ORZO

• In a medium saucepan, bring stock, milk, and ½ tsp salt to a boil.
• Add the orzo and simmer, stirring frequently, for 8-10 minutes until orzo is cooked.
• Reduce heat to medium-low, add the Parmesan and spinach.
• Keep cooking for about 3 minutes, until the spinach wilts.
• Remove from heat.
• Add the lemon zest and salt and pepper to taste.

ADD-IN OPTIONS:

• VEGETABLES: peas, diced carrots, asparagus, broccoli, squash, sweet potatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, petite diced tomatoes, or mushrooms. 
• FRESH HERBS: dill, parsley, or basil. 
• MEAT OR FISH: chicken, meatballs, tuna, or salmon.