Sun-Dried Tomato Basil Orzo

Ingredients and Weight:

• 1 pound orzo pasta
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped red onion
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
• 1/2 cup vegetable broth
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Difficulty Level: 2 (Moderate)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Cook the orzo pasta according to package directions.
2. While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add the sun-dried tomatoes and sauté for 2 minutes, or until softened.
4. Stir in the basil, red onion, and white wine (if using). Cook until the wine has reduced by half.
5. Add the vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
6. Strain the pasta and add it to the skillet. Toss to coat.
7. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Cook for 2-3 minutes more, or until the sauce has thickened.

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: 350 per serving (1 cup)
• Fat: 12 grams
• Protein: 10 grams
• Carbohydrates: 50 grams

Dish Characteristics:

• Creamy and flavorful
• Robust flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and basil
• Perfect for a light lunch or dinner
• Easily customizable with different ingredients

User Comments:

• "This dish is absolutely delicious! The combination of sun-dried tomatoes and basil is perfect."
• "I love the creamy sauce and the orzo cooked perfectly."
• "This is a great recipe to impress your guests with minimal effort."
• "I added some grilled chicken to make it a complete meal."
• "This is my go-to recipe for a quick and easy weeknight dinner."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• If you don't have white wine, you can substitute with chicken broth or water.
• For a vegetarian version, omit the Parmesan cheese.
• You can add other ingredients to the dish, such as cooked shrimp, grilled zucchini, or fresh spinach.