Another recipe with two of my favorite ingredients – spinach and artichokes.  This was my first experimentation with orzo – and it turned out really well.   Next time – I’m determined to find a way to make it using my rice maker!  Great as a side for a Mediterranean meal or  alone for a fantastic vegetarian meal!

• 1/2 box of orzo
• EVOO
• 1/2 box of frozen no sauce spinach
• 6oz. jar of marinated and quartered artichokes
• 3 cloves minced garlic
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream
• splash of white wine
• salt and pepper

• Cook orzo like a pasta in lightly salted water. Be super careful with the orzo because it’s really delicate and easy to overcook. Strain and set to side.
• Drizzle a bit of EVOO in the bottom of a pan and set to medium heat.
• Chop up artichokes into small pieces and add to the pan with tbs of garlic.
• Let simmer until artichokes brown a little and become fragrant.
• Cook spinach in microwave according to directions on box.
• Set aside half of spinach for another recipe….chop up remaining spinach and toss into pan with artichokes.
• Add splash of your favorite white wine and let simmer for a second or two, and then add in the 1/2 cup of milk and turn down the heat to low.
• Add orzo and Parmesan cheese and salt and pepper to taste.
• Mix well and allow to reduce a bit until orzo is desired consistency.