Heart-Healthy Creamy Parmesan Orzo
Indulge in the comforting goodness of Heart-Healthy Creamy Parmesan Orzo, a wholesome twist on a classic dish that’s perfect for maintaining a nutritious lifestyle without sacrificing flavor. Made with fiber-rich whole wheat orzo and a light, creamy base of low-sodium vegetable broth and Parmesan cheese, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between hearty and healthy. Fresh baby spinach adds a boost of nutrients, while garlic, lemon zest, and fragrant basil bring vibrant, Mediterranean-inspired flavors to every bite. Ready in just 30 minutes, this one-pot wonder is an easy, satisfying meal for busy weeknights or a crowd-pleasing side dish for any occasion. Garnish with fresh basil for a beautiful touch that’s as delicious as it is heart-healthy!
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Ingredients
- 1 cup whole wheat orzo
- 2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 2 cups baby spinach
- 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.25 cup fresh basil leaves
Directions
Step 1
Begin by mincing the garlic cloves and roughly chopping the fresh basil leaves.
Step 2
In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Step 3
Add the minced garlic to the saucepan and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Step 4
Pour the whole wheat orzo into the saucepan, stirring it around so that each grain is coated in the oil and garlic mixture.
Step 5
Slowly add the low-sodium vegetable broth to the orzo, stirring constantly to prevent clumping.
Step 6
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer uncovered for about 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is al dente and has absorbed most of the liquid.
Step 7
Stir in the baby spinach into the orzo and cook for an additional 2 minutes, until the spinach has wilted.
Step 8
Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it has melted, creating a creamy texture.
Step 9
Add the lemon zest and black pepper for extra flavor.
Step 10
Garnish with freshly chopped basil leaves before serving and enjoy your heart-healthy creamy Parmesan orzo.
Nutrition Facts
| Serving size | (831.1g) |
|---|
| Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|
| Calories | 1145.5 |
| Total Fat 32.1g | 0% |
| Saturated Fat 11.4g | 0% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat 1.3g | |
| Cholesterol 40mg | 0% |
| Sodium 1007.4mg | 0% |
| Total Carbohydrate 175.4g | 0% |
| Dietary Fiber 26.4g | 0% |
| Total Sugars 6.1g | |
| Protein 46.1g | 0% |
| Vitamin D 0IU | 0% |
| Calcium 623.8mg | 0% |
| Iron 10.8mg | 0% |
| Potassium 861.0mg | 0% |
Source of Calories