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Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato and Spinach Orzo with Feta

creamy sun-dried tomato and spinach orzo - featured image
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A quick and comforting creamy orzo dish featuring tangy sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, and salty feta cheese, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (170g) orzo pasta
  • 1/3 cup (50g) sun-dried tomatoes, packed and chopped (preferably oil-packed)
  • 3 cups (90g) fresh baby spinach
  • 1/2 cup (75g) feta cheese, crumbled
  • 2 tablespoons (30g) cream cheese, softened
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 1/2 cups (360ml) vegetable or chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Red pepper flakes (optional, a pinch)

Instructions

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the orzo and stir constantly for 2-3 minutes until lightly golden brown.
  2. Add the minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
  3. Pour in 1 1/2 cups of broth. Increase heat to medium-high and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat and simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally, for 8-10 minutes until orzo is tender but slightly firm. Add more broth or water if liquid evaporates too quickly.
  4. Lower heat to medium-low. Stir in the softened cream cheese until fully melted and creamy.
  5. Add the fresh spinach in batches, stirring until wilted and evenly distributed.
  6. Squeeze in lemon juice, season with salt and pepper to taste, then fold in crumbled feta cheese gently to warm through without melting completely.
  7. If desired, sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes. Stir gently and remove from heat.
  8. Serve warm immediately.

Notes

Toast the orzo before cooking to add nuttiness and prevent mushiness. Stir frequently during simmering to avoid sticking. Use softened cream cheese for a smooth sauce. Add lemon juice to balance richness. For dairy-free, substitute cream cheese and feta with plant-based alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: orzo, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, feta, creamy pasta, quick dinner, vegetarian, comfort food

Find it online: https://yumnode.com/creamy-sun-dried-tomato-and-spinach-orzo-with-feta-easy-homemade-recipe/