Lemon Herb Orzo with Greens

Instructions

1. Toast the Pine Nuts

   2 min hands-on11 min waiting

   • Preheat the oven to 160°C (320°F).
   • Spread the pine nuts evenly on a baking tray and roast for 10-12 minutes, stirring once halfway, until golden and aromatic.
   • Remove from the oven and set aside to cool.

2. Prepare the Aromatics

   12 min hands-on

   • Finely slice the onion and mince the garlic.
   • Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat and sauté the onions for 8-10 minutes until soft and translucent, stirring frequently.
   • Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

3. Deglaze with Wine

   4 min waiting

   • Pour in white wine and simmer for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until most of the liquid evaporates.

4. Wilt the Greens

   7 min hands-on

   • Gradually add spinach and kale to the pot, stirring continuously to wilt before adding more.
   • Transfer wilted greens to a colander and press out excess liquid, then set aside to cool slightly.

5. Cook the Pasta

   2 min hands-on11 min waiting

   • In the same pot, add dry whole-grain pasta and pour in vegetable broth.
   • Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and broth is mostly absorbed.

6. Chop and Combine

   4 min hands-on

   • Finely chop the wilted spinach and kale while the pasta cooks.
   • Stir chopped greens into the pot once pasta is ready and add most of the freshly chopped dill, reserving some for garnish.

7. Season and Brighten

   1 min hands-on

   • Grate lemon zest into the pot and squeeze in the juice.
   • Stir well and season with salt and black pepper to taste.

8. Assemble and Serve

   2 min hands-on

   • Divide pasta mixture into serving bowls.
   • Top each portion with crumbled feta cheese, toasted pine nuts, and a sprinkle of reserved fresh dill.
   • Cooking tips:
   • For even more flavor, lightly toast the feta before serving by placing the crumbled cheese under a broiler for 1-2 minutes.
   • Adjust the consistency by adding a splash of vegetable broth if the pasta seems too dry before serving.
   • To enhance the umami notes, consider adding a small pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of balsamic glaze when serving.