With Jersey Fresh produce beginning to appear at roadside markets and honor boxes here in Cumberland County, there’s no better time to present our readers with recipes that star our local fruits and veggies. Here’s one you cook up in seven steps. It makes a great side dish that will have the kids eating carrots in a pasta dish they love.
For a video of recipe prep for this dish, visit findjerseyfresh.com/JerseyFresh/recipes/carrot-orzo
Carrot Orzo
10 minute prep / 30 minute cook time
8 oz Jersey Fresh carrots, finely chopped or put through a food processor
2.5 cups water
2.5 cups chicken broth
3 tbsp. butter
1 medium Jersey Fresh onion, chopped
2 cups uncooked orzo pasta
2 Jersey Fresh garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. pepper
1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
3 Jersey Fresh chives, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
1 tsp Jersey Fresh thyme, chopped
1. Combine water and broth in a medium saucepan and heat over medium until very hot, about five minutes.
2. Meanwhile, melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add carrots and onions and cook, stirring occasionally, five minutes or until tender.
3. Add orzo and garlic and cook one minute.
4. Slowly ladle hot water and broth mixture into saucepan, stirring to combine.
5. Mix in salt and pepper. Cook, stirring often for 15 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed.
6. Stir in Parmesan, chives and thyme until blended.
7. To serve, garnish with chives.
