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Once the orzo has reached that perfect al dente texture, it’s time to elevate the dish with the star ingredients: sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach. Begin by draining the sun-dried tomatoes if they are packed in oil. If they are dry, soak them in hot water for about 10 minutes to rehydrate them. Chop them into bite-sized pieces to ensure they blend seamlessly with the orzo.

Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Orzo

Discover the comforting delight of Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Orzo, a dish that's perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings. This easy recipe features tender orzo pasta enveloped in a rich cream sauce, paired with the tangy sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes and vibrant spinach. Learn about the key ingredients, their nutritional benefits, and step-by-step preparation tips to create a flavorful dish that will impress your family and friends. Enjoy a delicious meal that's satisfying and nourishing, all in one bowl!
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Ingredients
  

1 cup orzo pasta

2 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)

1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, packed in oil, chopped

1 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped

1/2 cup cream cheese

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 small onion, finely chopped

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 teaspoon dried oregano

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Optional: crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat

Instructions
 

Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and oregano, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

    Cook the Orzo: Add the orzo to the skillet, stirring to coat it with the onion and garlic mixture. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.

      Incorporate Sun-Dried Tomatoes & Spinach: Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach. Mix well, allowing the spinach to wilt down for about 2-3 minutes.

        Make it Creamy: Reduce the heat to low and add the cream cheese and Parmesan cheese. Stir until fully melted and incorporated, creating a creamy sauce. If the orzo seems too thick, you can add a splash of broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Season with salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if desired.

          Serve: Once everything is well mixed and heated through, remove from heat. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves and an additional sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top.

            Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 20 minutes | Serves 4