Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Special equipment needed:
- Large skillet with lid
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are caramelized and golden brown, about 20-25 minutes.
2. While the onions are cooking, bring the broth to a boil in a separate pot. Add the orzo pasta and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until tender.
3. Once the orzo is cooked, drain any excess liquid and add it to the skillet with the caramelized onions. Stir to combine.
4. Season the orzo pilaf with salt and black pepper, to taste.
5. Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top of the orzo pilaf.
6. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it sit for 5 minutes, or until the cheese has melted.
7. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top of the orzo pilaf before serving.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 25-30 minutes
5. Temperature:
- Medium heat
Serving size:
- This recipe makes 4 servings.
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 300
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Protein: 10g
- Sodium: 800mg
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth.
- You can use goat cheese instead of feta cheese.
- You can use green onions instead of caramelized onions.
Variations:
- Add cooked chicken or shrimp to the orzo pilaf for a protein boost.
- Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for extra flavor.
- Use different herbs, such as basil or thyme, instead of parsley.
Tips and tricks:
- Be patient when caramelizing the onions - it takes time, but it's worth it for the flavor.
- Stir the orzo occasionally while it's cooking to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- If the orzo pilaf seems dry, you can add a splash of broth or water to moisten it.
Storage instructions:
- Store any leftover orzo pilaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- To reheat the orzo pilaf, add a splash of broth or water to moisten it and microwave it for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the orzo pilaf in a large serving bowl or on individual plates.
- Garnish with additional chopped parsley or crumbled feta cheese.
Garnishes:
- Chopped parsley
- Crumbled feta cheese
Pairings:
- Grilled chicken or fish
- Roasted vegetables
- Greek salad
Suggested side dishes:
- Garlic bread
- Roasted potatoes
- Steamed green beans
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the orzo pilaf is too dry, add a splash of broth or water to moisten it.
- If the orzo is overcooked and mushy, reduce the cooking time by 1-2 minutes.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the orzo pasta to the recommended time to ensure it's fully cooked.
- Store any leftover orzo pilaf in the refrigerator and consume within 3 days.
Food history:
- Orzo is a type of pasta that originated in Greece and is commonly used in Mediterranean cuisine.
Flavor profiles:
- The caramelized onions add sweetness and depth of flavor, while the feta cheese adds saltiness and tanginess to the dish.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the orzo pilaf as a side dish or as a main course with a protein.
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Region: Greek