One-Pot White Bean, Spinach & Sun-Dried Tomato Orzo: A Flavorful Meal Made Easy

Imagine a dish that checks all the boxes: hearty, flavorful, nutritious, and ready in just one pot. That’s what One-Pot White Bean, Spinach & Sun-Dried Tomato Orzo delivers. It’s a recipe that feels like a warm hug, combining the creaminess of orzo, the earthiness of spinach, and the tanginess of sun-dried tomatoes, all complemented by the richness of garlic-and-herb cheese.

Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner for the family or looking for a comforting meal for yourself, this dish is your go-to. With easy cleanup, wholesome ingredients, and a depth of flavor that feels restaurant-worthy, you’ll want to make it again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Convenient: A complete meal cooked in one pot means less cleanup and more time to enjoy.
• Wholesome and Nutritious: Packed with protein, fiber, and leafy greens, it’s a balanced dish.
• Bursting with Flavor: Sun-dried tomatoes, creamy cheese, and fresh basil come together beautifully.
• Customizable: Adjust ingredients to fit your preferences or dietary needs.

Ingredients for One-Pot White Bean, Spinach & Sun-Dried Tomato Orzo

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delectable dish:

Ingredient	Quantity
Sun-dried tomatoes in oil	1 cup, thinly sliced
Oil from sun-dried tomatoes	2 tablespoons
Shallot	1 medium, thinly sliced (about ½ cup)
Whole-wheat orzo	1 cup
Unsalted vegetable broth	3 cups
Cannellini beans (no-salt-added)	2 (15-ounce) cans, rinsed
Marinated artichoke hearts	1 (14.5-ounce) jar, drained
Baby spinach	1 (5-ounce) package
Garlic-and-herb cheese	1 (5.2-ounce) package (e.g., Boursin)
Balsamic vinegar	1 tablespoon
Fresh basil	¼ cup, chopped
Salt	½ teaspoon
Ground pepper	½ teaspoon

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sauté Aromatics

Start by heating 2 tablespoons of sun-dried tomato oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced shallot and cook for about 6 minutes, stirring often, until it becomes aromatic and translucent.

2. Toast the Orzo

Add the orzo to the skillet and stir frequently for about a minute. Toasting the orzo gives it a nutty flavor that enhances the dish.

3. Build the Base

Now, stir in the thinly sliced sun-dried tomatoes, vegetable broth, rinsed cannellini beans, drained artichoke hearts, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.

4. Simmer Until Al Dente

Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure the orzo cooks evenly.

5. Add Spinach and Cheese

Once the orzo is al dente, stir in the baby spinach and garlic-and-herb cheese. Keep cooking, uncovered, for 2 minutes or until the spinach wilts and the cheese melts into the sauce.

6. Final Touches

Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the balsamic vinegar for a subtle tang. Sprinkle the chopped fresh basil on top before serving.

Why This Dish Works

The combination of ingredients creates a symphony of flavors and textures:

• Orzo: Acts as the perfect creamy base.
• White Beans: Provide protein and heartiness.
• Spinach: Adds freshness and nutrients.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Offer a tangy, concentrated sweetness.
• Garlic-and-Herb Cheese: Brings the dish together with its creamy richness.

Perfect Pairings for This Dish

While this one-pot meal is satisfying on its own, you can pair it with these sides for an elevated dining experience:

• Crusty Bread: To soak up every bit of the sauce.
• Simple Green Salad: A light, crisp complement to the rich orzo.
• Roasted Vegetables: Try asparagus or Brussels sprouts for added flavor.
• White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully.

Tips for Success

• Use High-Quality Ingredients: Fresh basil, good-quality cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes in oil make all the difference.
• Don’t Overcook the Orzo: Keep an eye on it to maintain the perfect al dente texture.
• Stir Often: Prevent sticking by stirring frequently, especially as the liquid reduces.
• Customize to Taste: Add red pepper flakes for heat or swap spinach with kale for a heartier green.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a snapshot of the nutritional benefits of this dish:

Nutrient	Per Serving
Calories	420
Protein	15g
Carbohydrates	58g
Fat	12g
Fiber	10g
Sodium	420mg

FAQs About One-Pot White Bean, Spinach & Sun-Dried Tomato Orzo

1. Can I make this dish vegan?

Absolutely! Replace the garlic-and-herb cheese with a dairy-free alternative or use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

2. What can I use instead of orzo?

You can substitute with couscous, quinoa, or even small pasta shapes like ditalini.

3. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of vegetable broth to restore creaminess.

4. Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, but note that the texture of the orzo may soften slightly upon reheating. Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months.

5. What other greens can I use instead of spinach?

Kale, Swiss chard, or arugula are excellent substitutes. Just adjust the cooking time based on the sturdiness of the greens.

6. Is this dish kid-friendly?

Yes! The creamy cheese and mild flavors make it appealing to kids. You can reduce the sun-dried tomatoes if needed for picky eaters.

Why You Should Try This Recipe Tonight

One-Pot White Bean, Spinach & Sun-Dried Tomato Orzo is more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of simple, wholesome ingredients coming together in harmony. You’ll love how the creamy texture and bold flavors make every bite a delight. Plus, with just one pot to clean, it’s a stress-free way to enjoy a gourmet experience.

So, why wait? Gather your ingredients, grab a skillet, and savor the magic of this dish. It’s easy, delicious, and destined to become a favorite in your home.

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