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Creamy Corn and Spinach Orzo Recipe

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4.2 from 69 reviews

Creamy Corn and Spinach Orzo is a delectable and comforting pasta dish featuring tender orzo pasta cooked to perfection and combined with sweet corn, fresh baby spinach, and a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce enhanced by a bright splash of lemon juice. This easy-to-make skillet meal delivers a balance of fresh vegetable flavors and creamy indulgence, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering.

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Orzo Pasta

  • 1 cup orzo pasta

Vegetables & Aromatics

  • 2 1/2 cups corn, shucked right off the cob (about 4-5 ears)
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 5 cups baby spinach leaves, stems trimmed

Other Ingredients

  • 3 Tbsp. butter
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 3 Tbsp. lemon juice, freshly squeezed
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook Orzo: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the orzo pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside to keep warm.
  2. Sauté Corn and Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and add the fresh corn kernels. Sauté the corn for 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften and develop a slight golden color. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
  3. Wilt Spinach: Add the baby spinach leaves to the skillet with the corn and garlic. Cook for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the spinach wilts and reduces in volume but still retains its vibrant color.
  4. Combine and Simmer: Stir the cooked orzo into the skillet with the vegetables. Pour in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Gently stir to combine all ingredients evenly. Reduce the heat to low and simmer the mixture just until heated through and the cheese has melted, approximately 3-5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Adjust Consistency (Optional): If the orzo mixture is thicker than desired, gradually thin it out by stirring in a small amount of chicken broth or water until you reach a creamy, spoonable consistency.

Notes

  • Using fresh corn shucked directly from the cob provides the best sweetness and texture, but frozen corn can be a convenient alternative if fresh is not available.
  • Do not omit the fresh lemon juice; it adds a bright, refreshing note that balances the creamy richness without overpowering the dish.
  • Author: Adeline
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://flavorhug.com/creamy-corn-and-spinach-orzo-recipe/