There’s something truly special about curling up with a bowl of Tomato, Spinach & Bacon Orzo. With its vibrant bursts of cherry tomatoes, tender spinach, and crispy bacon, it’s a dish that dances on your palate. Imagine the comforting embrace of the orzo, mixed with the sweet notes of sautéed onions and aromatic garlic; it’s a truly indulgent experience! I often find myself whipping this up on chilly evenings when I crave a meal that’s both satisfying and warm—it’s become a staple in my kitchen.
This orzo dish comes together surprisingly fast, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty yet quick. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! You can serve it as a main dish or as a delightful side, and I love how leftovers taste even better the next day as the flavors deepen.
WHY I LOVE TOMATO, SPINACH & BACON ORZO
This dish is a true winner at my table! It’s incredibly easy and undeniably delicious, hitting that sweet spot between comfort food and elegant dining. The richness of the bacon complements the freshness of the spinach and tomatoes beautifully, creating a delightful flavor profile that your entire family will adore. Whenever I’m looking for a meal that pleases everyone, this orzo is my go-to!
TOMATO, SPINACH & BACON ORZO INGREDIENTS
The magic of this Tomato, Spinach & Bacon Orzo truly lies in the combination of vibrant colors and rich flavors. Don’t worry about exact measurements just yet; those are all in the recipe card for you!
Essential Components
- 1 CUP ORZO PASTA: These little pasta grains are the heart of the dish, soaking up all the juicy flavors around them!
- 2 CUPS SPINACH, FRESH: A wilted pile of fresh spinach adds a lovely pop of green and packs in nutrients.
- 1 CUP CHERRY TOMATOES, HALVED: These juicy gems burst with sweetness and acidity, bringing the dish to life.
- 4 SLICES BACON, CHOPPED: Little bits of crispy bacon provide a savory crunch that makes your taste buds sing!
- 2 CUPS VEGETABLE BROTH: This adds a depth of flavor, infusing the orzo with warmth.
- 3 CLOVES GARLIC, MINCED: Garlic is the secret weapon here, contributing that irresistible aroma and rich taste.
- 1 ONION, DICED: A base of sautéed onion brings sweetness and depth to the dish.
- OLIVE OIL: A drizzle for cooking and enhancing the flavor!
- SALT AND PEPPER TO TASTE: Simple seasonings that elevate everything.
- PARMESAN CHEESE, FOR SERVING: A finishing touch that adds creaminess and a touch of sophistication!
SUBSTITUTIONS AND TIPS
Need a swap? If you’d like to switch things up, here are a couple of ideas!
- Whole Wheat Orzo: For a healthier twist, swap in whole wheat orzo. Just keep an eye on the cooking time; it may take a minute longer.
- Turkey Bacon: In a pinch, using turkey bacon can lighten the dish. While it won’t be quite as rich, it still delivers a satisfying crunch.
- Zucchini or Kale in Place of Spinach: Feel free to toss in some chopped zucchini or kale for a different texture and flavor profile!
- Add Red Pepper Flakes: For a bit of spice, red pepper flakes are a wonderful addition—just a pinch will do!
KITCHEN TOOLS YOU’LL NEED
- Large skillet (12-inch works great!)
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- Ladle for serving (optional)
HOW TO MAKE TOMATO, SPINACH & BACON ORZO
Let’s dive into creating this delicious Tomato, Spinach & Bacon Orzo. I’ve broken down the process into simple steps. Follow along, and you’ll have a delicious meal in no time. We’re aiming for that perfect combination of chewy orzo coated in savory goodness!
Sauté the Bacon to Perfection
First, in a large skillet, heat a generous drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s shimmering, toss in the chopped bacon. Let it cook, stirring occasionally, until it’s crispy (you want that lovely golden brown!). This step is key as it creates foundational flavor.
Aromatic Onion and Garlic Seasoning
Next, remove the crispy bacon, setting it aside but leaving those tasty drippings in the skillet. Add in the diced onion next, cooking until translucent and fragrant. This takes just a few minutes, and once it’s done, stir in the minced garlic for another minute until it’s aromatic—oh, that smell!
Add the Juicy Tomatoes
Now, toss in the halved cherry tomatoes. Give them a good stir and let them cook until they start to soften, about 3 minutes. You’ll notice the color deepening and the sweetness enhancing—trust me, it’s irresistible!
Stir in the Orzo and Broth
Next, we’re going in with the orzo pasta and vegetable broth. Bring this mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for about 10 minutes. You’ll want the orzo to be tender and have most of the liquid absorbed—it’s really important for flavor absorption!
Wilt the Spinach and Combine
Once the orzo is cooked through, it’s time to add the fresh spinach and those crispy bacon bits back to the skillet. Stir everything together until the spinach wilts beautifully, infusing everything with its vibrant essence.
Final Touches and Serve
Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste—don’t forget to give it a final stir. I love to serve this dish hot, piled high and topped generously with Parmesan cheese. Every bite is a little bit of heaven!
HOW TO STORE TOMATO, SPINACH & BACON ORZO
The quality of this dish holds up quite well as leftovers, with flavors melding beautifully overnight. If you happen to have extras, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months—just remember to thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating. A quick zap in the microwave or on the stovetop brings it back to life wonderfully!
TIPS FOR SUCCESS
- Use fresh spinach for a vibrant color and nutrients.
- Keep an eye on the orzo to avoid overcooking it.
- Always taste for seasoning! Adjust prior to serving.
- For added elegance, finish with freshly cracked black pepper on top.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
- Pair with a simple green salad for a refreshing balance.
- A glass of crisp white wine complements the flavors beautifully.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a fresh touch!
- Serve with crusty bread to scoop up those delicious flavors.
I hope you embrace this warm, comforting dish as much as I do! Each spoonful is a reminder of the cozy connection we have with food, bringing friends and family together around the table. Happy cooking!
