Description

When you’re looking for a delicious, wholesome, and quick meal, One-Pot White Bean, Spinach & Sun-Dried Tomato Orzo is the perfect solution. This dish combines creamy orzo, hearty white beans, and fresh spinach, all tossed in a tangy, flavorful sauce with sun-dried tomatoes and garlic-and-herb cheese. Best of all? It’s made in just one pot, which means less cleanup and more time enjoying this comforting, nutritious dish.

Ingredients

1 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons oil from sun-dried tomatoes
1 medium shallot, thinly sliced (about ½ cup)
1 cup whole-wheat orzo
3 cups unsalted vegetable broth
2 (15-ounce) cans cannellini beans, rinsed
1 (14.5-ounce) jar marinated artichoke hearts, drained
1 (5-ounce) package baby spinach
1 (5.2-ounce) package garlic-and-herb cheese (e.g., Boursin)
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon ground pepper

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Instructions

Sauté Aromatics
Heat 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 fragrant and translucent.
Toast the Orzo
Stir in the orzo and toast for about 1 minute, stirring frequently to enhance its nutty flavor.
Build the Base
Add the sun-dried tomatoes, vegetable broth, cannellini beans, artichoke hearts, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
Simmer Until Al Dente
Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking of the orzo.
Add Spinach and Cheese
Stir in the baby spinach and garlic-and-herb cheese, cooking uncovered for about 2 minutes until the spinach wilts and the cheese melts into the sauce.
Final Touches
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in balsamic vinegar for a subtle tang. Sprinkle fresh basil on top before serving.

Notes

Use High-Quality Ingredients: The flavor of the dish is heavily influenced by the quality of sun-dried tomatoes, cheese, and broth.
Don’t Overcook the Orzo: Keep an eye on the orzo to maintain its al dente texture.
Stir Often: Stir frequently to prevent sticking, especially as the liquid reduces.
Customize to Taste: Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or swap spinach with kale for a heartier green.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: One-pot
Cuisine: Mediterranean