Zucchini Orzo

 The garden is overflowing with zucchinis and I have been craving some kind of pasta. I have had orzo in the pantry and decided to try and make some kind of zucchini side dish with it. This is the perfect side to pair with some grilled chicken. Perfect to enjoy on a summer evening outside with your favorite wine.

Ingredients

3 zucchini, thinly sliced

2 Tbsp olive oil

1 C orzo

1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes

1 garlic clove, minced

2 1/2 C chicken broth

1 Tbsp unsalted butter

In a pan over medium high heat, add the olive oil and zucchini. Let the zucchini sit for about a minute and then give them a stir. Continue this process for about 10 minutes, until the zucchini are softened, browned and are almost falling apart.

Add the orzo, crushed red pepper flakes and garlic. Stir and toast the orzo for about 2 minutes.

Add the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to medium low and continue cooking for about 10 minutes. Stirring occasionally. The orzo should begin cooking in the broth.

After 10 minutes, the broth should be almost completely absorbed.

Season with salt and pepper and add the butter. Stir until creamy and ready to serve.