Introduction
This delightful orzo pasta dish is bursting with flavor and packed with vibrant vegetables. With the aromatic blend of garlic, fresh basil, and cherry tomatoes, this recipe offers a perfect balance of textures and tastes. The addition of charred broccoli and creamy mozzarella elevates the dish, making it an ideal meal for any occasion.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 head of broccoli
4 cloves of garlic
Red wine vinegar
Extra virgin olive oil
1 onion
Olive oil
500g cherry tomatoes
1 bunch of fresh basil (30g)
300g orzo pasta
1 organic vegetable stock cube
1 x 150g ball of mozzarella
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli
Place a large casserole pan on high heat. Cut off the broccoli stalk and set aside, then break up the florets and dry-fry in the hot pan for 7 minutes, or until charred and slightly softened, turning regularly.
Step 2: Make the Broccoli Dressing
Peel the garlic, finely grate ½ a clove into a large bowl, add 1 tablespoon each of red wine vinegar and extra virgin olive oil, and mix well. Toss with the hot broccoli, then set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
Place the pan on medium-low heat. Peel and finely chop the onion along with the remaining garlic, trim and finely chop the broccoli stalk, then cook in the pan with 1 tablespoon of olive oil for 10 minutes, or until softened.
Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Basil
Halve and add the cherry tomatoes, tear in half of the basil leaves, season with sea salt and black pepper, and stir well. Cover and cook for 5 minutes, or until the tomatoes are starting to burst.
Step 5: Cook the Orzo
Stir in the orzo until it’s all coated in the sauce. Dissolve the stock cube in 1 litre of boiling water, then pour into the pan and simmer for 10 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and the tomatoes are beautifully saucy, stirring regularly.
Step 6: Incorporate the Mozzarella
Chop the mozzarella into 1cm cubes, scatter into the pasta, and leave to stand for 1 minute, or until melty. Stir through along with the remaining basil, drizzle with extra virgin olive oil, and serve with the charred broccoli.
Notes
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs nicely with a fresh side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Storage Tips
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Vegetarian Alternative
This recipe is vegetarian-friendly, making it suitable for meatless diets.
Cook techniques
Dry-frying
Dry-frying involves cooking ingredients in a hot pan without any additional fat. This technique enhances the flavors by creating a charred texture, as seen with the broccoli in this recipe.
Finely grating
Finely grating garlic allows for a more intense flavor release, which can be more easily mixed into sauces or dressings. This method was used for infusing garlic into the dressing for the broccoli.
Chopping and finely chopping
Chopping ingredients, particularly onion and garlic, into small pieces helps them cook more evenly and quickly, releasing their flavors efficiently during sautéing.
Covering while cooking
Covering the pan while cooking, as with the cherry tomatoes, helps to trap steam, allowing the ingredients to cook through more effectively, especially to encourage tomatoes to burst and create a sauce.
Stirring in pasta
Stirring in orzo pasta ensures that it is evenly coated with the sauce, helping to absorb flavors while also preventing it from clumping together during cooking.
Dissolving a stock cube
Dissolving a vegetable stock cube in boiling water creates a flavorful broth that can be added to pasta dishes, enhancing the overall taste without the need for additional seasoning.
Chopping mozzarella
Chopping mozzarella into small cubes allows it to melt more evenly into the pasta, creating a creamy texture throughout the dish.
Drizzling
Drizzling extra virgin olive oil at the end of cooking adds a rich, finishing flavor to the dish, enhancing the overall taste and presentation.
FAQ
What is dry-frying, and why is it used?
Dry-frying is cooking food in a hot pan without added oil. It is used to enhance flavor and create a charred texture.
Can I substitute garlic with garlic powder?
While garlic powder can be used, it won’t provide the same freshness and intensity as fresh garlic, especially when finely grated.
How can I ensure my broccoli stays bright green while cooking?
Cook broccoli quickly over high heat achieves a bright green color. Avoid overcooking to retain its vibrant color and crunch.
What should I do if my orzo is overcooked?
If orzo is overcooked, it will become mushy. To avoid this, watch the cooking time closely and test for tenderness frequently.
How can I store leftovers from this dish?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, various pasta types can be substituted; however, cooking times may vary, so adjust accordingly to ensure the pasta is cooked perfectly.
Is there a vegan substitute for mozzarella?
Yes, there are several vegan mozzarella alternatives available, or you can use tofu for a similar texture without dairy.
Conclusion
This vibrant dish brings together the comforting flavors of orzo pasta, fresh cherry tomatoes, and rich mozzarella, complemented by the nutritional goodness of broccoli. The charred broccoli adds a beautiful texture and depth, while the fresh basil offers aromatic notes that elevate the overall taste. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a delightful gathering, this recipe showcases the harmony of fresh ingredients and simple cooking methods.
Mini Caprese Skewers
Combine mozzarella balls with cherry tomatoes and fresh basil on skewers. Drizzle with balsamic glaze for a refreshing appetizer.
Broccoli and Orzo Salad
Make a cold pasta salad by mixing cooked orzo with blanched broccoli, cherry tomatoes, diced mozzarella, and a lemon vinaigrette for a light meal.
Garlic Roasted Broccoli
Toss broccoli florets with olive oil, minced garlic, and sea salt, then roast in the oven until crispy for a delicious side dish.
Tomato Basil Bruschetta
Create a topping by mixing diced cherry tomatoes, minced garlic, basil, olive oil, and red wine vinegar served on toasted bread slices.
Vegetable Stir-fry
Use remaining ingredients like onion and garlic to stir-fry with other seasonal vegetables, finishing with a splash of red wine vinegar for added flavor.
