Spinach And Garlic Confit Orzo

My incredible mother-in-law introduced me to the world of grain side dishes. Before I met her, rice was rice, and pasta went with cheese and ketchup. This is one of the dishes she served me early on, with a few swaps and add-ons.

Directions

Prepare the Spinach and Garlic Confit Orzo

1. Place the oil, vegetables, salt, and pepper in an oven-to-table dish or 9×13-inch pan. Toss well.

2. Bake uncovered at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 35–40 minutes, until nice and roasted.

3. In the same pan, add the orzo and water and toss everything together.

4. Cover and bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 35–40 minutes, checking after 20 minutes and then again after 10–15 minutes. (Don’t worry if you see some liquid when you take the pan out, it will get absorbed as it cools.)

Variations:

Add any vegetable you like. It’s delicious with mushrooms or a jalapeño pepper for added kick. It’s also great with diced sausage or pastrami.