Creamy Orzo with Mushrooms

 

Love risotto but hate all the stirring? This creamy pasta dish is an ideal shortcut for any risotto lover looking for a quick and cheesy vegetarian version.

Creamy Orzo with Mushrooms

Ingredients

8 ounces cremini mushrooms, thinly sliced

3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper

1 large leek (white and light green parts only), sliced and rinsed

2 cloves garlic, minced

12 ounces orzo

3 cups milk

1 1/2 cups shredded Italian cheese blend (about 6 ounces)

1 5-ounce package baby spinach (about 8 cups)

Grated zest and juice of 1 lemon

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F. Toss the mushrooms with 2 tablespoons olive oil, a pinch of salt and a few grinds of pepper on a baking sheet.
2. Spread out in a single layer. Roast, stirring halfway through, until well browned and crisp around the edges, about 25 minutes. Let cool for a few minutes, then scrape up with a spatula and transfer to a bowl.
3. Meanwhile, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the leek and garlic, season with salt and pepper and cook until the leek softens, about 2 minutes. Add the orzo, 2 cups water, the milk, 1 teaspoon salt and a few grinds of pepper. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is al dente, 5 to 7 minutes.
4. Remove from the heat and add the cheese, spinach, lemon juice and 1 tablespoon parsley. Stir until the cheese melts and the spinach wilts; add a splash of water if the mixture is too thick. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Toss the mushrooms with the lemon zest and remaining 1 tablespoon parsley. Divide the orzo among bowls and top with the mushroom mixture.

https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/food-network-kitchen/creamy-orzo-with-mushrooms-4554437