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Creamy Orzo with Spinach and Tomatoes

This creamy orzo with spinach and tomatoes is a quick and comforting pasta recipe ready in about 20 minutes. Tender orzo pasta combines with juicy plum tomatoes, fresh spinach, garlic, and Parmesan cheese for a flavorful and satisfying dish. Perfect as a vegetarian main course or a versatile side, this recipe is ideal for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even entertaining guests. The simple ingredients and short cook time make it both approachable and delicious, while the creamy texture and vibrant flavors give it a homemade restaurant-quality feel.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 420
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb Orzo pasta
  • 12 oz can Plum tomatoes with juice
  • 1 Yellow onion chopped
  • 4-5 handfuls Fresh spinach
  • 2 tbsp Minced garlic
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan cheese plus extra for serving
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste
  • Dried oregano to taste
  • Garlic powder to taste
  • Garlic salt to taste
  • 2 tbsp Extra virgin olive oil
  • Fresh parsley optional garnish

Method
 

Main Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the orzo pasta for about 5 minutes, or according to package directions, until tender. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
  3. Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until it begins to wilt, about 2 minutes.
  4. Pour in the canned plum tomatoes with their juice. Break the tomatoes apart gently with a spoon or spatula to create a chunky sauce.
  5. Season the mixture with salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and garlic powder. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese.
  6. Add the cooked orzo to the skillet and stir to coat evenly in the sauce. Sprinkle in garlic salt and more Parmesan if desired.
  7. Lower the heat and let the pasta sit for a few minutes so the sauce thickens and clings to the orzo.
  8. Serve warm, topped with additional Parmesan and fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

  • Reserve a splash of pasta water before draining the orzo. Stirring it in helps the sauce emulsify for a creamier texture.
  • Taste and adjust seasonings at the end to match your preference for herbs, salt, and Parmesan.