Creamy Spinach Artichoke Orzo Recipe
Introduction
This creamy spinach artichoke orzo is a simple, comforting dish perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. Combining tender orzo pasta with fresh spinach, artichokes, and creamy cottage cheese creates a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 cup canned or jarred artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
- 1/2 cup cottage cheese
Instructions
- Step 1: Cook the orzo according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Step 2: In the same pot, stir in the chopped spinach and artichokes while the orzo is still warm to slightly wilt the spinach.
- Step 3: Add the cottage cheese to the pot and gently mix until everything is combined and creamy. Heat through for another 2-3 minutes, but do not boil.
- Step 4: Serve warm as a main dish or side.
Tips & Variations
- Use fresh or frozen spinach based on availability; just thaw and drain frozen spinach first.
- Add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
- Swap cottage cheese with cream cheese or ricotta for a richer texture.
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain creaminess.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen spinach works well. Just make sure to thaw and squeeze out excess water before adding to the dish.
Is this dish suitable for a vegetarian diet?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian as it contains no meat. For a vegan option, replace the cottage cheese with a plant-based cheese alternative.
PrintCreamy Spinach Artichoke Orzo Recipe
Creamy Spinach Artichoke Orzo is a quick and comforting one-pot dish featuring tender orzo pasta combined with fresh spinach, savory artichokes, and creamy cottage cheese for a rich and flavorful meal perfect for lunch or dinner.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup canned artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Orzo: In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water or vegetable broth to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and a pinch of salt, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cook the orzo, stirring occasionally, until tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, about 8-10 minutes.
- Prepare the Vegetables: While the orzo is cooking, chop the fresh spinach and artichoke hearts into bite-sized pieces.
- Combine Ingredients: Once the orzo is cooked, stir in the chopped spinach and artichokes. Cook together for 2-3 minutes until the spinach is wilted and the mixture is heated through.
- Add Cottage Cheese: Remove the pan from heat and gently fold in the cottage cheese until the mixture is creamy and well combined. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Serve: Spoon the creamy spinach artichoke orzo onto plates and serve warm as a satisfying main or side dish.
Notes
- For extra creaminess, you can add a splash of milk or cream when stirring in the cottage cheese.
- Use vegetable broth instead of water to enhance the flavor.
- This dish can be made ahead and reheated gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- Feel free to sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving.
- For a vegan version, substitute cottage cheese with a plant-based cream cheese alternative.
Keywords: Creamy Orzo, Spinach Artichoke, Quick Dinner, Vegetarian Pasta, Cottage Cheese Dish
