ORZO BASIL SALAD RECIPES

Steps:

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add the orzo and cook according to the package directions — usually 8 to 10 minutes. Before draining the cooked orzo, reserve 1/3 cup of the pasta water (we use this to make the sauce).
• Add olive oil, garlic, and red pepper flakes to a large, deep skillet. Turn to medium heat. When the oil bubbles around the garlic, add the cooked orzo pasta, tomatoes, basil, and parmesan cheese.
• Pour in two tablespoons of the reserved pasta water and cook, stirring often, for one minute. Over the minute, the sauce should begin to coat the pasta. If it seems dry, add a splash more of the reserved pasta water and cook a few more seconds. Taste for seasoning and adjust with a bit of salt if needed.
• Serve with extra basil, parmesan, and fresh ground black pepper on top.

Steps:

• Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F.
• Toss the eggplant, bell peppers, onion, and garlic with the olive oil, salt, and pepper on a large sheet pan. Roast for 40 minutes, until browned, turning once with a spatula.
• Meanwhile, cook the orzo in boiling salted water for 7 to 9 minutes, until tender. Drain and transfer to a large serving bowl. Add the roasted vegetables to the pasta, scraping all the liquid and seasonings from the roasting pan into the pasta bowl.
• For the dressing, combine the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper and pour on the pasta and vegetables. Let cool to room temperature, then add the scallions, pignolis, feta, and basil. Check the seasonings, and serve at room temperature.