Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook orzo according to package directions. Drain, rinse with cold water, drain again, place in large bowl and set aside.
- Heat oil in large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat; sauté onion until tender, stirring frequently, until browned, about 15 minutes.
- In a large bowl, toss orzo with onion, broth, lemon juice and parsley.
- Cover and chill if making ahead. Bring to room temperature; stir in tomatoes and mint; season with salt and pepper to taste.
Orzo Pasta
Often confused with rice, orzo is actually a small pasta that is just as versatile and tasty as rice. It adds a Mediterranean touch to any meal and absorbs liquid for the perfect al dente bite! Another alternative pasta option used in many Middle Eastern and Eastern European dishes is pearl couscous. What is Pearl Couscous? The small balls of pasta are larger than traditional Moroccan couscous, however, just like orzo, this variety can be used in any recipe calling for other grains like rice or quinoa.
Finding Mint for Cooking
Especially in the spring and summer, fresh mint can be obtained in the fresh vegetable area of stores. Fresh large bunches of mint can be found at grocery shops and farmers' markets during the summer. Mint is relatively simple to grow and grows in profusion throughout the warm months.
Taste of Mint
Mint has a sweet flavor that is fresh, juicy, and aromatic. It leaves a lingering chilly and tingling sensation on the tongue. While spearmint tends to be sweeter, cooler, and more subdued, peppermint has a stronger peppery and menthol flavor. Try Sweet Sticky Rice with Mango and Coconut and enjoy that minty freshness.
How to Store Mint
Fresh mint will last for at least a week if you wrap it in a slightly damp paper towel and then place the bundle in a sealable plastic bag or container. Store it in the crisper drawer which has a temperature and moisture level that will encourage it to stay fresh for a bit longer.
Dried mint, like all dried herbs, should be stored in a sealed container in a cool dry place.
Best Way to Chop Parsley
The best way to chop parsley is to use the rock-chop method where you begin rocking the knife up and down while keeping the tip of the blade always on the surface of the cutting board. This helps maintain cutting control and uses the knife leverage to your advantage to cut cleanly down and through ingredients.
Other Meal Inspiration
For another great Mediterranean style dish, learn how to cook Arborio Rice risotto.
