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Garlic Butter Orzo with Mushrooms and Spinach

Garlic Butter Orzo with Mushrooms and Spinach for Cozy Nights

Garlic Butter Orzo with Mushrooms and Spinach is a cozy vegetarian dish that comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Orzo
  • 1 cup Orzo Pasta Substitution: Small pasta shapes like acini di pepe or ditalini could be used.
  • 1 cup Vegetable or Chicken Broth Use low-sodium options to control salt levels.
For the Flavors
  • 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Substitution: Vegan butter for a dairy-free option.
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil Substitution: Any neutral oil will suffice.
  • 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
  • 1 medium Onion (finely chopped) Sauté until translucent for best flavor.
For the Vegetables
  • 8 ounces Cremini or Button Mushrooms (sliced)
  • 4 cups Fresh Spinach (roughly chopped) Note: Frozen spinach can be used if thawed and drained properly.
For the Creamy Finish
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Substitution: Nutritional yeast for a vegan alternative.
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Pepper
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice Brightens the dish and cuts through the richness.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley (chopped for garnish) Adds a fresh touch and herbal notes.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • large skillet
  • Colander

Method
 

Cooking Steps
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually about 8–10 minutes, until al dente. Drain the orzo and set it aside.
  2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter with 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. This should take about 1–2 minutes.
  3. Add the minced garlic and finely chopped onion to the skillet. Sauté until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 2–3 minutes.
  4. Stir in the sliced mushrooms, cooking for about 5–7 minutes until tender and they release moisture.
  5. Add the chopped spinach to the skillet, cooking for about 2–3 minutes until wilted and vibrant green.
  6. Pour in 1 cup of broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer for about 1–2 minutes.
  7. Incorporate the drained orzo into the skillet, stirring to coat it with the broth and vegetable mixture. Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes.
  8. Reduce heat to low and sprinkle in 1/2 cup of grated parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and combined.
  9. Season with salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. Mix thoroughly to combine all the flavors.
  10. Allow to simmer gently for a few more minutes to achieve desired consistency. Add a splash more broth if necessary.
  11. Spoon into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 10gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 450mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 4gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 1200IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2.5mg

Notes

Use fresh garlic and vegetables for the best flavor; adjust seasoning in steps for optimal taste.

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