Food For Thought: Garden Veggie Orzo!

There's something about orzo that I just LOVE!  I love that it's such a blank canvas and that it's a smaller, cuter version of pasta. -^_^-  I've only been cooking with orzo for about a year but it has quickly become a favorite.

 
My older brother is in Culinary school and in many ways, he already is a Chef in my mind.  He often makes me realize how much I'm just a "home cook" so to speak.  I like my everyday meals yummy, healthy and simple-- I hope that's okay with you guys! :)  I usually do follow my brother's advice though, and start a meal with "Mise en place" (french for "everything in it's place").  That's where you prepare all ingredients before cooking--  Seriously, it helps. :)  I cut up my veggies (I used some heirloom tomatoes, broccolini, and zucchini) and put some water on to boil for the orzo.  Follow the directions on your bag/box of Orzo and you'll be fine. :)

I really love to make dinners like this, that involve layering flavors.  I start off with some olive oil + garlic in a big skillet and add in some challot (or you could just use onion).  After that cooks down a bit, I add in the more dense veggies like broccolinni and add the softer veggies (tomatoes and zuchinni) after a couple minutes.  I also added some kalamata olives for tart kick!  You can use whatever veggies, olives, etc. you want or have on hand, make it your own! -^_^-

The next thing I did was add my cooked + strained orzo and mix in some parmesan cheese (yum).  I often use petso for dishes like this as well, which is absolutely delicious.  Because I'm a carnivore, I also grilled a chicken breast to slice and add in.  Goodness, I'm making myself hungry writing this!  If you try it I hope you enjoy! -^_^-

Since this is my first Food post, constructive criticism is so welcome!  Feel free to let me know what you liked/disliked about this post, why and give suggestions!  I hope you are having a great Tuesday! -^_^-