Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 package (6 oz) garlic and herbs Boursin cheese
- 16 oz dry orzo pasta
- 4 oz sundried tomatoes in oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups low sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach, baby arugula, or baby kale
- ⅓ cup grated parmesan cheese
- Small handful of fresh basil and/or parsley, chopped
Spices and Oils
- ½ tsp dried basil
- ½ tsp dried parsley
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ¼ tsp dried red pepper flakes
- ½ tsp Kosher salt
- ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tbsp oil from the sundried tomato jar
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to prepare for baking the orzo dish.
- Assemble Ingredients in Casserole: Unwrap the Boursin cheese and place it in the center of a 13×9-inch casserole dish. Scatter the dry orzo evenly around the cheese. Add the sundried tomatoes, minced garlic, dried basil, parsley, thyme, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper evenly over the orzo.
- Add Liquids and Oils: Pour the low sodium chicken or vegetable broth over the orzo, careful to avoid pouring directly on the Boursin cheese. Drizzle in the sundried tomato oil and extra virgin olive oil to enrich the flavors. Loosely cover the casserole dish with foil to prevent excessive browning.
- Bake Initial Phase: Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 10 minutes to allow the orzo to start cooking and the cheese to soften.
- Mix Cheese and Greens: Remove from oven and stir the softened Boursin cheese into the orzo, mixing well for a creamy consistency. Fold in the fresh spinach, arugula, or kale to incorporate greens into the dish.
- Bake Final Phase: Recover the casserole with foil and return it to the oven to bake for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, until the orzo is fully cooked and the mixture has thickened.
- Finish and Season: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor and creaminess. If the mixture is too thick, add a couple of tablespoons of water to loosen the sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt as needed.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped basil and/or parsley before serving to add freshness and color to the dish.
Notes
- If you prefer a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Adjust the red pepper flakes amount to control the spice level according to your preference.
- Using fresh herbs in addition to dried can enhance the flavor and brightness of the dish.
- For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of cream or milk before the final bake.
- This dish pairs well with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
