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Creamy roasted garlic orzo is a delightful dish that beautifully marries the nutty, sweet flavors of roasted garlic with the luxurious creaminess of a rich sauce. This recipe stands out not just for its comforting qualities but also for its versatility, making it suitable for various dietary preferences, including traditional and vegan lifestyles. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal to whip up on a busy weeknight or an elegant dish to impress guests at a dinner gathering, creamy roasted garlic orzo fits the bill perfectly.

Creamy Roasted Garlic Orzo

Discover the secret to making creamy roasted garlic orzo, a dish that perfectly balances rich, comforting flavors with fresh ingredients. This versatile recipe features nutty roasted garlic combined with tender orzo, creating a luscious meal that can fit various dietary preferences. Easy to prepare, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or elegant dinner gatherings. Elevate your dining experience with this flavorful and satisfying dish that everyone will love. Enjoy a gourmet taste at home!
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Ingredients
  

1 cup orzo pasta

1 head of garlic

2 tablespoons olive oil

4 cups vegetable broth

1 cup heavy cream (or dairy-free alternative)

1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for vegan)

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped

¼ cup fresh basil, chopped

Zest of 1 lemon

Juice of ½ lemon

Instructions
 

Roast the Garlic:

    - Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

      - Cut the top off the head of garlic to expose the cloves and drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Wrap it in aluminum foil and roast in the oven for about 30-35 minutes until soft and caramelized. Let it cool before squeezing the cloves out.

        Cook the Orzo:

          - In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Add in the orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions, typically about 8-10 minutes until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

            Make the Cream Sauce:

              - While the orzo is cooking, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Squeeze the roasted garlic cloves into the skillet and mash them lightly with a fork. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

                Combine Ingredients:

                  - Lower the heat and add in the heavy cream to the garlic mixture, stirring to combine. Allow it to simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.

                    - Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well until the cheese is melted and incorporated.

                      Finish the Dish:

                        - Drain the cooked orzo and add it to the creamy garlic sauce, tossing to coat. Stir in the chopped spinach, basil, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Mix thoroughly until the spinach is wilted.

                          Serve:

                            - Serve the creamy roasted garlic orzo in bowls, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese (if desired) and fresh basil leaves.

                              Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 4