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When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compete with a creamy pasta that satisfies the soul. The Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Orzo Delight is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making it a standout choice for any occasion. This dish is not just about indulgence; it also incorporates nutritious elements, like fresh spinach, ensuring that it nourishes both the body and the palate. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner, planning a meal prep session, or looking to impress guests at a gathering, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.

Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Orzo

Discover the ultimate comfort food with this Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Orzo Delight. This flavorful pasta dish combines orzo, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach for a nourishing meal that impresses at any occasion. Easy to prepare, it features rich ingredients like heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, creating a luxurious sauce that tantalizes the taste buds. Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, this recipe is both wholesome and satisfying, making it a must-try for any pasta lover.
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Ingredients
  

1 cup orzo pasta

2 tablespoons olive oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (preferably packed in oil for enhanced flavor)

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)

1 1/2 cups vegetable broth

1 cup heavy cream

1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

2 cups fresh spinach leaves

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions
 

Cook the Orzo: In a large pot, bring a generous amount of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to the package instructions, typically about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Once cooked, drain the orzo in a colander and set it aside.

    Sauté Aromatics: Return the empty pot to medium heat and add the olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic, sautéing for about 1 minute or until fragrant. Keep a close eye on it to prevent the garlic from burning.

      Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Stir the chopped sun-dried tomatoes into the pot along with the red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to heat through and release their rich flavor into the oil.

        Create the Creamy Sauce: Carefully pour in the vegetable broth and heavy cream. Stir the mixture well to combine all the ingredients. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then lower the heat to maintain a soft simmer without boiling.

          Incorporate Cheese: Gradually add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese into the pot, stirring continuously. Continue to mix until the cheese has melted completely and the sauce has a luscious, creamy consistency. Taste, and adjust seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper as desired.

            Combine with Orzo: Add the drained orzo pasta into the creamy sauce, tossing to ensure every piece is generously coated. Gently fold in the fresh spinach leaves, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and integrates into the dish.

              Garnish and Serve: Serve the creamy sun-dried tomato orzo warm, topping each dish with a handful of fresh basil leaves and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired for an inviting presentation.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 30 minutes | Serves 4