Description
This Spinach & Cranberry Orzo with Lemon Cream Sauce is the perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors. Tender orzo is tossed with fresh spinach, tart dried cranberries, and a luscious lemon-Parmesan cream sauce, creating an easy yet elegant dish. Whether served as a comforting main course or a delicious side, this recipe comes together in just 25 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions!
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- ¼ cup dried cranberries
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
1️⃣ Cook the orzo: Boil a pot of salted water and cook the orzo according to package instructions (8–10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
2️⃣ Sauté the garlic & spinach: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
3️⃣ Make the sauce: Reduce heat to low and pour in the heavy cream. Add Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir well and let the sauce simmer until it thickens slightly, about 2–3 minutes.
4️⃣ Combine everything: Add the cooked orzo and dried cranberries to the skillet. Toss everything together, ensuring the orzo is well-coated in the sauce. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
5️⃣ Serve & enjoy! Garnish with extra Parmesan and lemon zest if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Dairy-free option: Swap heavy cream for coconut cream or cashew cream.
- More protein? Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.
- Extra crunch? Sprinkle toasted almonds or pine nuts before serving.
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of cream or broth for the best texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Pasta, Main Course, Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean, Italian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: ~320 kcal
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Keywords: spinach orzo, cranberry orzo, lemon cream sauce, creamy orzo recipe, easy pasta dish, weeknight dinner, vegetarian pasta