Creamy Tuscan Orzo Bowl

A rich and comforting bowl of orzo pasta, simmered in a creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce with sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and a hint of Italian herbs. Perfect for a satisfying vegetarian meal.

I remember making this Creamy Tuscan Orzo Bowl for my family on a busy weeknight. Everyone loved how hearty and flavorful it was, and we barely had any leftovers.

Ingredients

• Pasta: 1 ½ cups (300 g) orzo pasta, 4 cups (960 ml) vegetable broth
• Vegetables: 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 small yellow onion (finely chopped), 3 garlic cloves (minced), 1 cup (50 g) sun-dried tomatoes (drained and sliced), 4 cups (120 g) baby spinach
• Dairy: ¾ cup (180 ml) heavy cream, ½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
• Herbs & Seasoning: 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs, ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional), salt and black pepper (to taste)

Instructions

Sauté Aromatics:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until translucent.

Add Garlic & Tomatoes:

Stir in garlic and sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Toast Orzo:

Add orzo to the skillet and toast for 2 minutes, stirring frequently.

Cook Orzo:

Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 8 to 10 minutes or until orzo is al dente and most liquid is absorbed.

Make Sauce:

Reduce heat to low. Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan, Italian herbs, and red pepper flakes, mixing well and cooking for 2 to 3 minutes until creamy.

Add Spinach & Season:

Add baby spinach and stir until wilted. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Serve:

Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.

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Sharing this recipe at the dinner table made for a warm and fun family evening. We enjoyed every spoonful and even talked about planning an Italian-themed night again soon!

Suggested Pairings

This orzo bowl pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine such as Pinot Grigio. Add a simple green salad and toasted bread for a complete meal.

Make It Lighter

Swap out heavy cream for half-and-half to enjoy a lighter, yet still creamy, version of this Tuscan orzo. You can also increase the spinach for added nutrition.

Add Extra Protein

For extra protein, stir in cooked white beans or grilled chicken for non-vegetarian guests. Each addition blends well with the creamy, savory base.

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Enjoy this Creamy Tuscan Orzo Bowl hot for best flavor and texture. A sprinkle of Parmesan right before serving makes it extra special.

Recipe FAQ

→ Can I substitute orzo with another pasta?

Yes, small pastas like ditalini or small shells work well, though cook times might vary slightly.

→ Is there a way to make this meal lighter?

Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, and reduce cheese quantity for a lighter texture and flavor.

→ What is a good protein addition?

Cooked white beans or grilled chicken can be stirred in for added protein, if not strictly vegetarian.

→ How do I keep the sauce creamy?

Simmer gently and add cream and cheese off heat, stirring constantly to prevent curdling.

→ Can I prepare this meal ahead of time?

You can cook ahead and reheat gently, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce before serving.

→ Is this suitable for meal prep?

Yes, divide into containers and store in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat with additional liquid if needed.