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Creamy One-Pot Tomato Basil Orzo with Spinach and White Beans

creamy one-pot tomato basil orzo - featured image
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A quick and easy one-pot meal featuring tender orzo, vibrant spinach, and creamy white beans in a flavorful tomato-basil sauce. Perfect for cozy, healthy dinners with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (170 g) orzo pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 can (14 oz / 400 g) crushed tomatoes
  • 3 cups (720 ml) vegetable broth
  • 1 can (15 oz / 425 g) white beans, drained and rinsed (cannellini or great northern)
  • 4 cups (120 g) fresh baby spinach
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

Instructions

  1. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large deep skillet or wide saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 4 minutes.
  2. Add the minced garlic and stir for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
  3. Stir in 1 cup (170 g) orzo pasta and toast lightly in the oil and onions for about 2 minutes.
  4. Add the entire 14 oz (400 g) can of crushed tomatoes and 3 cups (720 ml) vegetable broth. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
  5. Reduce heat to medium-low and let it simmer uncovered for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo absorbs the liquid and swells. Add more broth or water if it dries out too quickly.
  6. Stir in the rinsed white beans and fresh spinach. Cook for about 2 minutes until the spinach wilts. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Remove from heat and gently fold in the chopped fresh basil leaves. Let the dish rest covered for 2 minutes to allow flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
  8. Serve warm, optionally garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

Notes

Toast the orzo before adding liquids to keep a firm texture and richer flavor. Add spinach at the end to keep it bright and fresh. Stir gently and watch the liquid level during simmering to prevent sticking or burning. For vegan or gluten-free versions, substitute orzo with gluten-free pasta or quinoa and skip Parmesan or use a plant-based alternative.

Nutrition

Keywords: one-pot, orzo, tomato basil, spinach, white beans, easy dinner, healthy, vegetarian, quick meal

Find it online: https://twinkletaste.com/creamy-one-pot-tomato-basil-orzo-with-spinach-and-white-beans-recipe-easy-and-healthy/