Orzo Pasta with Broccoli

When you first look at it you may think the tiny pellets are rice but they are actually little pasta noodles. I cant recall the first time I had orzo but from the first time I ate it, its been a staple in my home. Orzo can be cooked in boiling water like most any pasta or done in a pilaf method which is my favorite. For this orzo recipe the ingredient list is simple just orzo pasta, salt, pepper, vegetable bouillon cubes, stock/broth, broccoli, grapeseed/olive oil, and additional water.

The Dream Team

This recipe is really simple and hearty, especially if you sprinkle on some grated parmesan or romano cheese it can easily become the main course at dinner. If broccoli isn't your thing you can easily replace it with spinach or any vegetable of your choice. Just make sure and adjust cooking times accordingly.

Orzo Pasta with Broccoli

1lb orzo pasta

4tbsp grapeseed oil

1tbsp butter

1 shallot minced

1/2 bulb garlic, peeled and minced

1qt vegetable stock

1 vegetarian bouillon cube

20 oz fresh or frozen chopped broccoli 

salt and pepper to taste

grated parmesan (optional)

- Set large saucepan over medium/high fire and add in oil and butter.

- add shallots and garlic to pan, sauté for 2 minutes

- add in orzo pasta and sauté for an additional minute

- add in stock and bouillon cube, lower heat to medium/low

- cover pot and let it cook for 10-15 minutes

- add in broccoli, salt, pepper, and replace cover, add in additional water in necessary

- let cook on low until done.