Are you ready to transform a simple pasta dish into a luxurious, restaurant-worthy experience without any animal products? This Simple Vegan Orzo Risotto is about to become your new favorite weeknight meal that looks and tastes like it took hours to prepare, but comes together in just 25 minutes! Imagine a creamy, dreamy Italian-inspired dish that's packed with flavor, nutrition, and pure plant-based satisfaction that will make even non-vegans ask for seconds.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup spinach
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegan parmesan for serving
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wide saucepan over medium heat. Add finely chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and soft, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning and release the aromatic flavors.
- Add sliced mushrooms to the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes until they begin to release their moisture and start to brown slightly.
- Pour in the orzo pasta and stir to coat with the oil and vegetables, toasting the pasta for about 1-2 minutes to enhance its nutty flavor.
- Gradually add vegetable broth, one cup at a time, stirring frequently. Allow each cup to be absorbed before adding the next, similar to traditional risotto technique.
- Continue adding broth and stirring for about 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and has a creamy consistency.
- Stir in fresh spinach and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the spinach wilts and becomes vibrant green.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning as needed.
- Remove from heat and let the risotto rest for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the texture to settle.
- Serve hot, garnished with vegan parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Tips
- Use warm vegetable broth when adding it to the orzo to ensure even cooking and help the pasta absorb liquid more efficiently.
- Stir frequently during the cooking process to prevent sticking and achieve that signature creamy risotto texture.
- Choose fresh, high-quality mushrooms for the best flavor and texture in your dish.
- Don't rush the broth-adding process - adding it gradually helps develop a rich, creamy consistency.
- For extra flavor, consider toasting the orzo slightly before adding liquid to enhance its nutty undertones.
- If the risotto becomes too thick, you can always thin it out with a little extra vegetable broth.
- Vegan parmesan is optional but highly recommended for adding a delicious umami finish to the dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
