orzo with bacon leeks peas spinach and lemon

Dinner
This easy Orzo with Bacon, Leeks, Peas, Spinach and Lemon is a one-pot meal that’s sure to become a regular on your dinner rotation!

Ingredients

  • 6 slices center-cut bacon, chopped
  • 1 leek, white parts only, chopped
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 1 cup dry orzo
  • 3 cups low sodium chicken broth
  • 2 cups packed baby spinach
  • ¼ cup freshly grated parmesan
  • 1 medium lemon, zested and cut into wedges
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Directions

  1. 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.
  2. Add the leeks and sauté until soft, 3 to 4 minutes. Add the peas and sauté for 1 minute more.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.