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Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Orzo Recipe

If you’re searching for a comforting and delicious dish that combines creamy textures with earthy flavours, look no further than creamy mushroom and spinach orzo. This delightful recipe makes use of orzo, a small pasta shaped like rice, making it the perfect vehicle for a rich sauce. Packed with umami from mushrooms and nutritious greens, this dish is ideal for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering.

Ingredients

To serve four, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 250g orzo pasta
• 300g mushrooms (button or chestnut mushrooms work well), sliced
• 150g fresh spinach
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 300ml vegetable stock
• 200ml double cream
• 50g grated Parmesan cheese (or a vegetarian alternative)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Method

1. Cook the Orzo: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to the packet instructions until al dente. Drain the orzo, reserving a small cup of the pasta water, and set aside.

2. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large frying pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until softened. Next, add the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms, cooking until the mushrooms release their moisture and begin to brown, approximately 5-7 minutes.

3. Add Spinach and Stock: Once the mushrooms are cooked, stir in the fresh spinach. Cook for a few minutes until the spinach wilts. Pour in the vegetable stock and allow the mixture to simmer for a couple of minutes.

4. Create the Creamy Sauce: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the double cream, mixing well. Add the grated Parmesan cheese (reserving a tablespoon for serving) and stir until it melts into the sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached.

5. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked orzo to the creamy mushroom and spinach mixture. Toss everything together, ensuring the orzo is well coated in the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Serve: Plate the creamy orzo and garnish with the remaining Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped parsley. For an added touch, drizzle with a little extra virgin olive oil before serving.

Tips

• Mushroom Varieties: Feel free to experiment with different types of mushrooms such as shiitake, portobello, or even a mix for a more robust flavour.
• Vegetarian Option: Ensure that the Parmesan cheese is vegetarian if you’re catering to dietary requirements.
• Add Some Protein: If you wish to add some protein, grilled chicken or sautéed prawns make excellent additions to this dish.

This creamy mushroom and spinach orzo is not only easy to prepare, but it also boasts a rich and comforting flavour profile that will warm your soul. Perfect for a quick dinner or as a comforting meal to share with friends, this dish is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Give it a try, and enjoy the creamy, indulgent goodness that only a bowl of pasta can provide!

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