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One-Pot Basil and Tomato Orzo Recipe

If you’re looking for a simple yet delicious meal that combines fresh flavours and minimal cleanup, look no further than this One-Pot Basil and Tomato Orzo. Perfect for a midweek dinner or a leisurely weekend meal, this recipe strikes a harmonious balance between the vibrant taste of juicy tomatoes and the aromatic essence of basil. Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe that will delight your taste buds and leave you feeling satisfied.

Ingredients

• 300g orzo pasta
• 400g tin of chopped tomatoes
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 700ml vegetable stock (or chicken stock, if preferred)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil leaves, a handful (plus extra for garnish)
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Method

1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Begin by gathering all your ingredients. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

2. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot or deep frying pan, heat the olive oil over a medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent. Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

3. Add the Tomatoes and Stock: Pour in the tin of chopped tomatoes, followed by the vegetable stock. Stir to combine. This forms the base of your dish, infusing the orzo with flavour as it cooks.

4. Incorporate the Orzo and Seasonings: Add the orzo pasta to the pot along with the dried oregano. Season with salt and pepper according to your preference. Stir everything well to ensure the orzo is submerged in the liquid.

5. Cook the Orzo: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Allow it to cook uncovered for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally. The orzo should absorb most of the liquid and become tender yet al dente. If the mixture seems too dry, feel free to add a splash more stock or water.

6. Add Fresh Basil: Once the orzo is cooked, remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the fresh basil leaves, allowing them to wilt slightly in the residual warmth.

7. Serve and Garnish: Spoon the orzo into bowls and garnish with extra fresh basil and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve immediately, allowing the vibrant colours and enticing aromas to entice everyone to the table.

Tips for Customisation

• Protein Additions: For a heartier meal, consider adding cooked chicken, prawns, or chickpeas. Simply toss them in during the last few minutes of cooking to heat through.

• Vegetable Variations: Add your favourite vegetables such as spinach, courgettes, or bell peppers to enhance the nutritional value and refresh the dish each time you make it.

• Spicing It Up: For a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when you sauté the onion.

Conclusion

This One-Pot Basil and Tomato Orzo is the epitome of comfort food, marrying ease of preparation with enticing flavours that evoke the essence of Italian cuisine. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal fuss, you can create a dish that’s both wholesome and satisfying. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen, this recipe is bound to become a staple in your repertoire. Enjoy the delightful flavours and the joy of cooking without the hassle of multiple pots and pans!

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