This side dish screams (and tastes) fresh.  Thyme and lemon go incredibly well together and they give the orzo a freshness, that turns it into a light and flavorful side dish.  Think BBQ dinner, outside, entertaining.  it is easy to make, done in 20 minutes and the result is simply natural and delicious.  A great (and much easier and faster) alternative to risotto.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups chicken stock or broth
• 2 cups water
• Pinch dried red pepper flakes
• 1 garlic clove, minced or pressed
• 3/4 cup orzo
• 1/2 lemon, zested
• 2 tbsp. fresh, chopped thyme leaves
• salt

Directions:

• In a medium saucepan, add the stock, water, pepper flakes, and garlic and bring to a boil over high heat.
• Stir in the orzo, lower the heat, and simmer until most of the liquid has been absorbed, stirring occasionally, about 10 minutes.
• Remove from the heat, and stir in lemon zest and thyme leaves.
• Season with salt, to taste, and transfer to a serving bowl.

Serves: 4

Enjoy!

(Recipe by: Melissa d’Arabian)

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