Garlic Parmesan Orzo
"A side dish that is creamy and flavorful"
Serves 4 | Prep Time 5 minutes | Cook Time 15 minutesWhy I Love This Recipe
A great way to get out of the regular mac and cheese sides
Ingredients You'll Need
2 tsp unsalted butter
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 large shallot (1/4 cup minced)
2 cups broth (chicken or vegetable)
1 cup milk
1/4 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp sea salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 cup dry orzo pasta
3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
2 cups chopped fresh spinach
Directions
1) Melt butter in a large pan (grab one that's deep enough for your orzo + sauce) over medium-high heat and sauté your shallot and garlic until tender, adding the garlic towards the end to prevent burning. If extra butter is needed, feel free to add as desired
2) Add your milk, broth, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Stir with a whisk to deglaze the pan
3) With your burner set to medium (I had mine set to 6) add the orzo and stir. Set timer for 10 minutes. Once the orzo starts to really boil and bubble, reduce heat to low and continue to simmer, stirring occasionally
4) Once the pasta is al-dente or your ideal softness, remove from heat. Sauce will be thin and thicken as it cools. Add your parmesan cheese and chopped spinach and fold into the orzo
5) Season to taste as desired, garnish with any additional cheese your heart desires and dig in while it's hot
Pairs Well With
Any main course
