Lemony Artichoke and Orzo Salad

 Nice fresh side dish.

Ingredients

  • 2 Tbsp. unsalted butter
  • 1 Tbsp. minced fresh garlic
  • 1 cup dry orzo pasta
  • 2 cups lower-sodium vegetable broth (sub chicken broth) I used water
  • 3/4 cup marinated artichoke hearts, roughly chopped (from a jar)
  • 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese (sub shaved Parmesan) Didn't use this but would recommend
  • 1/4 cup sliced almonds (sub toasted pine nuts) Didn't use this but would recommend
  • 1 tsp. lemon zest, plus 1 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice (from 1 lemon really only 1/2 lemon juice
  • 1/4 tsp. cracked black pepper
  • 2-3 Tbsp. finely chopped parsley or basil leaves didn't use this but could use color

Instructions

  • In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Once melted, add garlic and cook 1 minute, until fragrant. Stir in orzo and cook 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the grains are lightly toasted and golden.
  • Add broth; increase heat to bring mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce to medium-low, cover, and gently simmer for 15 minutes until all liquid is absorbed.
  • Remove pan from heat and stir in artichokes, feta, almonds, lemon zest and juice, black pepper, and fresh parsley (or basil). Taste and add a pinch of salt, if needed. Serve warm, chilled, or closer to room temperature.
    *If making ahead, reserve 1 to 2 Tbsp. oil from the jar of marinated artichokes to stir in right before serving to help loosen up the grains

MAKE-AHEAD AND STORAGE TIPS:

  • Make-Ahead: This lemon orzo salad can be made up to 1 day ahead. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and stir in 1 to 2 Tbsp. olive oil prior to serving.
  • Store: This salad will last up to 4 days refrigerated, however it will dry out slightly. I like to stir in olive oil or some of the oil from the marinated artichokes jar prior to serving. You can enjoy it warmed, chilled, or closer to room temperature.
  • Reheat: If you prefer this salad warm, just nook it in the microwave for 30 to 45 seconds. 

Recipe originally from: https://dishingouthealth.com/lemon-artichoke-orzo-salad/

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