Creamy Spinach Orzo with Lemon

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

Highlighted under: Wholesome Kitchen

I absolutely love cooking up this Creamy Spinach Orzo with Lemon whenever I need a quick, comforting meal. The combination of creamy texture and vibrant flavors is something that makes my taste buds sing! I find that the spinach adds a beautiful color and a nutritional boost, while the fresh lemon juice really brightens the dish. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, yet impressive enough for entertaining friends.

Created by

Bethan Rowcroft

Last updated on 2026-01-15T13:57:34.543Z

When I first made this Creamy Spinach Orzo with Lemon, I was amazed by how simple yet delicious it turned out. I particularly enjoyed how the flavors melded together effortlessly, creating a rich and satisfying dish. The orzo cooks up quickly, allowing me to enjoy a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

One tip I discovered along the way is to reserve some pasta water as I drain the orzo. This starchy water is perfect for loosening the sauce if it gets too thick, ensuring that every bite remains creamy and luscious. It’s those little tricks that elevate a dish from good to great!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich, creamy texture that comforts the soul
Bright lemon flavor that elevates the dish
Quick and easy weeknight dinner solution

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

When it comes to Creamy Spinach Orzo with Lemon, the quality of your ingredients is paramount. Fresh spinach not only provides vibrant color but also contributes essential nutrients, such as vitamins A and K. Using high-quality heavy cream will create that luxurious texture that makes this dish truly comforting. If you opt for frozen spinach in a pinch, just be sure to thoroughly drain it to avoid excess moisture, which could alter the creaminess of the final dish.

Lemon gives this dish its bright and refreshing character. Using freshly squeezed lemon juice will enhance the flavor profile compared to bottled juice, which can taste more muted. Zesting the lemon before juicing helps retain the essential oils, imparting a wonderful fragrance and flavor. Don't be shy with the zest—it's a game-changer that elevates the dish beyond the ordinary.

Technique Tips for Creaminess

To achieve that rich, creamy consistency, the order in which you combine the ingredients matters. After sautéing the garlic and spinach, it's crucial to add the heavy cream and broth to the pot before reintroducing the orzo. This method allows the orzo to absorb the flavors from the cream and broth, creating a cohesive and luscious sauce. Keep the heat low to medium during this stage to prevent the cream from curdling—the mixture should simmer gently, not boil.

Another tip for texture is to tailor the consistency of the sauce to your liking. If you prefer a thicker dish, let it simmer a few minutes longer until it reduces to your desired creaminess. Conversely, if it becomes overly thick, you can easily stir in a splash more vegetable broth or cream until you reach the perfect balance.

Ingredients

For the Creamy Spinach Orzo

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

Gather all your ingredients and let’s get started!

Instructions

Cook the Orzo

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package directions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Garlic and Spinach

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

Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked orzo back into the pot with spinach. Stir in the heavy cream, vegetable broth, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Mix well and let simmer for about 5 minutes.

Season and Serve

Season the dish with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm, garnished with Parmesan cheese.

Enjoy your creamy spinach orzo with a fresh salad or crusty bread!

Pro Tips

For a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with cashew cream or a plant-based alternative.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Creamy Spinach Orzo makes for a fantastic make-ahead meal. If you want to prepare it in advance, cook the orzo and sauté the spinach and garlic, then store these components separately. When you’re ready to eat, combine them in a pot with the cream and broth, heating gently until warmed through. This method ensures that the orzo does not become mushy during storage.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth or cream to restore the creaminess. Avoid microwaving as it can lead to uneven heating and potential curdling of the cream.

Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Spinach Orzo pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish for a hearty meal, making it great for entertaining. You can also serve it as a side dish with roasted vegetables, allowing the creamy texture to complement the charred flavors exquisitely. A sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes right before serving can also add a nice touch of heat, elevating the dish further.

For a vegetarian protein boost, consider incorporating white beans or chickpeas into the mix. Simply stir them in while combining the ingredients, allowing them to heat through with the rest of the dish. This not only enhances the texture but also adds extra nutrition, making it a balanced meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can definitely use frozen spinach. Just thaw and drain any excess water before adding it to the dish.

→ What can I serve with this orzo?

This creamy orzo pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, shrimp, or a fresh salad.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of broth or water.

→ Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this recipe is completely vegetarian. Just ensure to use vegetable broth.