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Creamy Spinach and Feta Orzo

Creamy spinach and feta orzo is an easy one-skillet side dish that can easily be turned into a main by adding your favorite protein. It's so flavorful and comes together in 20 minutes!
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Makes: 4 -6 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons salted butter divided
  • 1 garlic clove minced
  • 2 shallots diced
  • 1 zucchini finely diced
  • 1 1/4 cup dry orzo pasta
  • 4 oz feta cheese
  • 1 1/2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 cup half & half
  • 2 cups fresh spinach roughly chopped
  • 1/3 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
  • Fresh basil leaves
  • Kosher salt to taste
  • Freshly ground pepper to taste

Instructions

  • Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the garlic, shallot, and zucchini and cook, stirring occasionally, until all the veggies are softened and lightly golden brown.
  • Then, add the orzo to the pan and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, so that the orzo is coated in the butter and oil. Add the broth and half & half to the pan, stir well, and bring to a simmer. Lower the heat to low, cover, and cook for 10 minutes.
  • Remove the lid, stir well, and add the chopped spinach, basil, and feta. Cover and cook another 3-5 minutes, until the liquid is absorbed and the orzo is cooked all the way through. Stir in the remaining butter and parmesan and season to taste with salt and pepper. Serve warm topped with more fresh basil.

Nutrition

Serving: 3/4 cupCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 8gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 4gSodium: 350mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2g