This comforting Mushroom Orzo is a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner that brings the earthy richness of shiitake mushrooms together with pillowy orzo pasta. The dish is built on a simple base of sautéed onions and mushrooms, creating a deeply savory profile without the need for heavy cream. ItâÂÂs naturally vegan and low-fat, making it a guilt-free indulgence for mushroom lovers. The orzo absorbs the flavors beautifully, resulting in a satisfying texture that feels both hearty and light. Perfect for a speedy Tuesday night meal or a cozy weekend lunch, this recipe requires minimal ingredients but delivers maximum flavor. Serve it hot for the best texture, or enjoy leftovers cold as a picnic-style salad.
Mushroom Orzo
Description
This comforting Mushroom Orzo is a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner that brings the earthy richness of shiitake mushrooms together with pillowy orzo pasta. The dish is built on a simple base of saut&# 195;©ed onions and mushrooms, creating a deeply savory profile without the need for heavy cream. ItâÂÂs naturally vegan and low-fat, making it a guilt-free indulgence for mushroom lovers. The orzo absorbs the flavors beautifully, resulting in a satisfying texture that feels both hearty and light. Perfect for a speedy Tuesday night meal or a cozy weekend lunch, this recipe requires minimal ingredients but delivers maximum flavor. Serve it hot for the best texture, or enjoy leftovers cold as a picnic-style salad.Ingredients
Directions
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the orzo according to package directions until al dente.
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Drain the orzo, reserving 1 cup of the starchy pasta water before setting the pasta aside.
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
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Add the minced yellow onion to the skillet and sauté until softened and fragrant, about 3 minutes.
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Add the shiitake mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they are browned and tender, about 5-7 minutes.
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Return the cooked orzo to the skillet and toss with the mushrooms and onions.
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Add reserved pasta water a little at a time, tossing constantly, until the desired creamy consistency is reached.
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Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve immediately while hot.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 256.5kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 3.6g6%
- Saturated Fat 0.5g3%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 377.4mg16%
- Total Carbohydrate 49.2g17%
- Dietary Fiber 5.1g21%
- Sugars 2.3g
- Protein 9.1g19%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
For best results, ensure your skillet is hot before adding the mushrooms to get a nice sear rather than steaming them.
Shiitake mushrooms have a strong umami flavor, but you can substitute cremini or button mushrooms if needed.
If the orzo looks dry after tossing, add more reserved pasta water or a splash of vegetable broth.
This dish is best served immediately as the orzo will continue to absorb liquid and thicken over time.
To make this dish more substantial, consider adding a handful of fresh spinach or peas during the last minute of cooking.