Spinach Mushroom Orzo

Ingredients:

8 oz orzo pasta
1 tablespoon olive oil
8 oz mushrooms, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced4 cups baby spinach
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Red pepper flakes, for garnish (optional)
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Directions:

1. Cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they begin to brown, about 5-7 minutes. (Consider cooking the mushrooms in a dry dutch oven )
3. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
4. Stir in the baby spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Add the cooked orzo pasta to the skillet and toss to combine with the mushrooms and spinach.
6. Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the orzo mixture. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with red pepper flakes and chopped fresh parsley, if desired, before serving.