Description
This Creamy Tuscan Chickpeas & Orzo recipe combines tender orzo pasta with hearty chickpeas and vibrant vegetables in a luscious, herb-infused creamy sauce. Featuring sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, and a touch of Parmesan, this dish is a perfect weeknight meal that’s both comforting and nutritious.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Liquids & Dairy
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for dairy-free option)
- 1/4 cup vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
Garnish
- Fresh basil, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the orzo: Prepare the orzo pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain thoroughly and set aside to be added later.
- Sauté the onion: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent.
- Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until it releases a fragrant aroma.
- Combine vegetables and herbs: Add the drained chickpeas, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, dried oregano, and dried basil to the skillet. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the spinach wilts and flavors meld together.
- Create creamy sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and vegetable broth. Stir well to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for about 5 minutes, letting the sauce thicken slightly.
- Season and mix in orzo: Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste, then add the cooked orzo into the skillet. Stir thoroughly until the orzo is evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
- Serve and garnish: Remove from heat and serve immediately. Optionally, top with grated Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped basil for an extra burst of flavor and color.
Notes
- For a dairy-free alternative, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use vegetable broth.
- Sun-dried tomatoes add a tangy sweetness—ensure they are well chopped for even distribution.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, reduce the broth slightly or cook the sauce longer to concentrate flavors.
- Parmesan cheese is optional but adds a nice savory depth to the dish.
- Fresh basil garnish enhances aroma and freshness but can be omitted if unavailable.
