Recipe: Orzo and Veggies

This is a great main dish or a side dish.  It can be served warm or cold and is a healthy meal choice.  It also comes together very quickly.  It serves 4 as a main dish.

• 2 pints cherry tomatoes, halved
• 4 cloves garlic, peeled and halved lengthwise
• 2 Tbs. extra virgin olive oil
• 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds
• 1 1/2 cup whole wheat orzo
• 1 cup each chopped broccoli and zucchini
• 1 bunch fresh basil chopped
• salt, pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup feta cheese, optional

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 450 degrees.
2. On a rimmed baking sheet lined with foil, toss the tomatoes and garlic with olive oil and salt and pepper, and place in oven.  Roast for about 15-20 minutes until softened and slightly browned.
3. Cook the orzo in a large pot of boiling water according to package directions.  With the last five minutes of cooking, add the chopped broccoli and zucchini to the water and stir.
4. Drain the orzo and veggies and return them to the pot.  
5. Stir in the roasted tomatoes and garlic.  Add the nuts and fresh basil.  If  using, add the feta cheese.  Season to taste with salt and pepper.

Stay healthy & well,
Lisa