Orzo With Peas And Parsley Pesto Recipes

Steps:

• In a large saucepan, cook orzo as directed on the package, adding the peas during the last 4 to 6 minutes of cooking time, cook until tender.
• Drain excess liquid. Add pesto and toss gently to coat. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Serve.
• Makes 5 (3/4 cup) servings.

Steps:

• Combine first 6 ingredients in a food processor and pulse until almost smooth. With the machine running, slowly add the olive oil until emulsified. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Place the orzo in a large bowl and combine with the pesto. Fold in the peas and season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley.

Steps:

• Put the pancetta in a large, deep frying pan over a medium-high heat and fry until crisp and golden. Remove from the pan with a slotted spoon, transfer to a plate and set aside. Reduce the heat, add the onion along with a pinch of salt and fry in any leftover fat for 5 mins. Add the garlic and continue to fry for a further 3 mins.
• Increase the heat and stir in the orzo. Fry for 2 mins, stirring constantly, then pour in 500ml stock and bring to a simmer. Add more stock by the ladleful, stirring constantly, as the orzo absorbs the liquid (similar to cooking a risotto).
• After 5 mins, stir in the petit pois and bring the mixture to a simmer. Continue to add the remaining stock, stirring, as the mixture cooks. Simmer for 10 minutes, or until the orzo is cooked through. Add the lemon zest and juice, basil, parmesan and fried pancetta. Season to taste, then cover and leave to rest for 2 mins. Serve with extra parmesan sprinkled over the top.