Orzo with Bacon, Peas, Spinach and Lemon
User Reviews
4.8
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Prep Time
5 mins
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Cook Time
25 mins
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Total Time
30 mins
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Servings
4 servings
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Calories
314 kcal
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Course
Main Course, Dinner
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Cuisine
American
Orzo with Bacon, Peas, Spinach and Lemon
Description
Orzo with Bacon, Peas, Spinach and Lemon uses chopped center-cut bacon cooked until crisp to impart a smoky, savory flavor. Leeks add mild onion sweetness when sautéed with the bacon, followed by peas for bursts of freshness. The orzo is simmered in low-sodium chicken broth until tender, absorbing the combined flavors.
After cooking, fresh baby spinach is stirred in and covered briefly to wilt, contributing color and a tender texture. Finishing touches of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and lemon zest add depth and brightness, while freshly ground black pepper adjusts the seasoning.
This dish works well as a hearty side or light main meal. Lemon wedges served alongside allow additional citrus to be added to taste. The combination of smoky bacon and fresh greens with orzo makes it flavorful and balanced.
Ingredients
- 6 lices Bacon chopped, center-cut
- 1 leek (white parts only, chopped)
- 1 cup peas frozen
- 1 cup orzo dry
- 3 cups chicken broth low sodium
- 2 cups baby spinach packed
- ¼ cup Parmesan Cheese freshly grated
- 1 medium lemon (zested and cut into wedges)
- black pepper to taste, freshly ground
Instructions
- Place the chopped bacon in a large, heavy-bottom sauce pot or Dutch oven. Cook the bacon over medium-high heat for 6 to 8 minutes, or until crispy.
- Add the leeks and sauté until soft, 3 to 4 minutes. Add the peas and sauté for 1 minute more.
- Add the orzo and chicken broth, stir to combine then bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer 10 minutes, stirring every few minutes, scraping the bottom of the pot to make sure the orzo doesn’t stick.
- Remove from the heat, add the spinach, stir, then cover for a couple minutes or until the spinach has wilted. Top with parmesan, lemon zest and black pepper and serve with lemon wedges on the side.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 314 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 11/2 cups | |
| Calories | 314kcal | 16% |
| Carbohydrates | 40g | 13% |
| Protein | 17g | 34% |
| Fat | 10g | 15% |
| Saturated Fat | 3g | 15% |
| Cholesterol | 15mg | 5% |
| Sodium | 547mg | 23% |
| Fiber | 4g | 16% |
| Sugar | 4g | 8% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
4.8
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