Creamy Spinach Orzo with Lemon

Name: Creamy Spinach Orzo with Lemon
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 1 cup orzo pasta; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 lemon, zested and juiced; Salt and pepper to taste; Parmesan cheese for serving

Highlighted under: Fast Easy Meals Ideas

I absolutely love making Creamy Spinach Orzo with Lemon for a quick and comforting dinner. The combination of creamy sauce, fresh spinach, and zesty lemon creates a delightful flavor that elevates the simple orzo pasta. In just about 30 minutes, I can transform basic ingredients into a rich and satisfying dish that's perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends. Whether you’re serving it as a main dish or a side, this recipe never fails to impress with its vibrant colors and luscious texture.

Created by

Maribel Sutton

Last updated on 2026-01-15T15:33:36.119Z

When I first tried Creamy Spinach Orzo with Lemon, I was amazed by how such simple ingredients could yield such a luxurious dish. The creamy sauce balances perfectly with the zesty brightness from the lemon, making every bite refreshing. I learned that gently cooking the spinach in the same pot as the orzo enhances the flavors and minimizes cleanup, a win-win in my book.

Over the years, I've adjusted the recipe to suit my tastes, often adding a sprinkle of parmesan for extra richness. The lemon zest is a game changer! It brings a pop of flavor that contrasts beautifully with the creaminess, ensuring that this dish is never bland. I can’t wait for you to try it!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich and creamy texture that satisfies
Perfectly balanced with zesty lemon for freshness
Quick and easy meal ideal for any night of the week

      

Understanding the Key Ingredients

The backbone of this Creamy Spinach Orzo lies in its simplicity and the quality of its ingredients. The orzo pasta, often overlooked for its short cooking time, serves as a delightful canvas for the creamy sauce. Its unique shape allows it to hold onto the sauce beautifully, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. For this dish, I recommend using high-quality orzo made from durum wheat for a perfectly al dente texture that holds well in the creamy sauce.

Fresh spinach is the star of this recipe, bringing a vibrant green color and a host of nutrients. When sautéed, it wilts down significantly, so don’t be afraid to use a generous amount. Opt for organic spinach if possible, as it tends to have a fresher taste. The lemon juice and zest play a vital role, adding brightness to the rich cream, counterbalancing the heaviness and elevating the overall flavor profile.

The Creamy Sauce Technique

Achieving the right creamy consistency is crucial in this recipe. As you add the heavy cream and vegetable broth, keep the heat at a medium level to allow the sauce to simmer gently. If the mixture becomes too thick, you can thin it out with a splash of additional vegetable broth or even pasta water. The visual cue to watch for is when the sauce becomes glossy and coats the back of a spoon—this indicates it’s perfectly creamy and ready for seasoning.

The timing of combining the ingredients is also essential. Adding the orzo to the sautéed garlic and spinach ensures the flavors meld together seamlessly. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and allow for even heat distribution. Once everything is combined, let it simmer for a few minutes, which helps intensify the flavors. Be cautious not to overcook the spinach, as it should remain vibrant and keep its nutrients.

Ingredients

To make this delicious Creamy Spinach Orzo, gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients

1 cup orzo pasta
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup vegetable broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 lemon, zested and juiced
Salt and pepper to taste
Parmesan cheese for serving

Make sure to have all the ingredients ready before starting to cook!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create the perfect Creamy Spinach Orzo:

Cook the Orzo

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Garlic and Spinach

In the same pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in the chopped spinach and sauté until wilted.

Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked orzo back into the pot with the spinach. Pour in the heavy cream and vegetable broth, and stir to combine. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until heated through.

Season and Serve

Stir in lemon juice and zest, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm, topped with freshly grated parmesan cheese.

Enjoy your creamy and comforting orzo dish!

Pro Tips

For a healthier option, you can substitute heavy cream with low-fat milk or a plant-based alternative. Add cooked chicken or shrimp for extra protein.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, storing them efficiently can preserve the creamy texture. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can last in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or broth to help rejuvenate the creaminess, as it tends to thicken in the fridge. Heat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently until warm throughout.

For longer storage, consider freezing the orzo dish. I recommend freezing it in individual portions for quick meals later. To freeze, let the dish cool completely, then store it in freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to two months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating it, similar to the refrigeration method.

Serving Suggestions

Creamy Spinach Orzo pairs beautifully with various proteins, making it a versatile option for weeknight dinners. Try serving it alongside grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp for a heartier meal. For a vegetarian twist, roasted chickpeas or tofu can be excellent additions, providing a nice textural contrast with crispy edges that complement the creamy pasta.

To elevate the presentation, garnish with additional lemon zest or fresh herbs such as basil or parsley. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a hint of heat, while a drizzle of good-quality olive oil can enhance the flavor. This dish is not only visually appealing but also a great way to showcase seasonal produce, so feel free to incorporate other vegetables you may have on hand.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the dish.

→ Can I make this dish in advance?

While it's best served fresh, you can prepare the orzo and sauce separately and combine them when ready to eat.

→ What are some variations I can try?

You can add sun-dried tomatoes, mushrooms, or cooked chicken for extra flavor and nutrition.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.