Spinach Parmesan Orzo

By Jan_C

Ingredients

• Spinach Puree:
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, peeled and sliced
• 1 bunch spinach, stemmed and washed
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 pound orzo
• Salt
• 3 tablespoons fine quality olive oil
• 1/2 cup finely grated good quality Parmesan cheese

Details

Servings 4
Preparation time 10mins
Cooking time 30mins
Adapted from foodnetwork.com

Preparation

Step 1

Spinach puree:
In a wide saute pan, heat olive oil and add garlic, saute 1-2 minutes over medium heat until limp. Add roughly chopped spinach, salt and pepper, cover and cook 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally. Place spinach mixture in blender and puree until smooth. Reserve.

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add orzo and stir gently. Cook 4-7 minutes checking occasionally. The pasta should be firm but cooked through. Coat a large flat pan with olive oil and have ready. Strain orzo through a large strainer shaking off excess water. Immediately spread hot pasta out on the tray for a minute or two to cool slightly and release as much steam from the orzo as possible. Toss orzo with spinach puree and grated cheese and serve immediately.