– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups fresh spinach, washed and chopped
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 lemon (juice and zest)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
– Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)
Follow these simple steps to create your Lemon Garlic Orzo with Spinach and Tomatoes:
1. Cook Orzo: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté Garlic: In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
3. Add Spinach: Add the chopped spinach to the pot and cook until it wilts, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Incorporate Tomatoes: Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until they soften slightly.
5. Combine Orzo: Add the cooked orzo back to the pot, mixing well with the vegetables.
6. Add Lemon: Pour in the lemon juice and sprinkle the lemon zest over the mixture. Stir until everything is combined evenly.
7. Season: Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, mix in the grated Parmesan cheese for a creamy finish.
8. Serve Immediately: Remove from heat and dish out portions topped with fresh basil, if desired.
By following these steps, you’ll have a vibrant and flavorful meal in no time, allowing you to impress friends and family with your culinary skills.