Christmas in July Orzo Salad

What is it about red and green that automatically makes you think of Christmas? I can't even cook with red and green without humming Jingle Bells.

Which is how this Christmas in July orzo salad came about!

A quick, easy side dish when the last thing you want to do is slave over dinner in the summer! 

Christmas in July Orzo Salad

Serves 4 as a side dish

Prep Time: 5 min. Total Time: 20 min.

Ingredients:

-1 c. orzo

-2 cloves garlic, minced

-1/2 green bell pepper, diced

-3/4 c. cherry tomatoes, sliced in half

-1 tbsp. EVOO (extra-virgin olive oil)

-Grated Parmesan cheese

-Handful of fresh basil, chopped

-Balsamic Vinegar

Directions:

Cook orzo according to box directions.

Meanwhile, saute garlic in EVOO until slightly browned and fragrant. Add bell peppers and cherry tomatoes and cook over low-medium heat, stirring occasionally, until veggies are soft.

When orzo is done cooking, drain and combine with vegetable mixture.

Add a large splash of balsamic vinegar and drizzle with more EVOO.

Top with chopped basil and Parmesan cheese.

Enjoy!

Laura