Cheesy Spinach Rice Pilaf

windsurfer's Note:

For a while my dd was helping out by deciding what's for dinner on thursday night. She found this recipe on Rachael Ray's website. It's become a weeky staple for us.

• Total Time: 30 mins
• Prep Time: 10 mins
• Cook Time: 20 mins

Ingredients:

Servings: 4

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1/3 cup orzo pasta
• 1 garlic clove, finely chopped
• 1 cup white rice, like texmati brand
• 1 3/4 cups chicken stock or 1 3/4 cups broth
• salt & freshly ground black pepper
• 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 3/4-1 cup grated parmigiano reggeano cheese

Directions:

1. Rinse the rice.
2. Heat the olive oil in a fry pan over medium heat.
3. Toast the orzo to a golden brown.
4. Add the garlic to the pan and cook for another 30 seconds.
5. Add the rice, broth, salt and pepper and bring to a boil.
6. Cover the pot, reduce the heat and simmer for another 15 minutes until the liquid is absorbed.
7. Fold in the chopped spinach and grated cheese.