BONNIE'S ORZO AND RICE PILAF

BONNIE'S ORZO AND RICE PILAF image

Provided by BonniE !

Time 40m

Number Of Ingredients 15

2/3 cup orzo
1/2 cup long-grain white rice
1 medium onion finely chopped
2 carrots 1/4 inch dice
2 ribs of celery 1/4 inch dice
2 garlic cloves finely chopped
1 cup water
1 3/4 cups chicken broth
1/4 cup chopped fresh italian parsley
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon unsalted real butter
1/4 teaspoon salt or more to taste
1/4 teaspoon pepper or to taste
1 small zuchini if desired, 1/4 inch dice (1 1/4 cups)
1/4 cup slivered almonds toasted

Steps:

1. EQUIPMENT You will need a deep 12 inch skillet preferably with a glass lid that fits tightly.
2. PREPARE THE VEGETABLES Chop the onions, carrots, celery and garlic, parsley and zucchini if desired.
3. SAUTE THE VEGETABLES Heat the oil and butter in the skillet over medium heat, then saute the orzo, stirring it constantly until it is golden brown about one minute. Add the prepared vegetables (except the parsley and zucchini) and add the salt and pepper. Stir until the onion is lightly browned, then add the rice, saute and stir until coated with oil and butter.
4. COOK THE RICE Add the broth and the water and bring to a boil, lower the heat to low and cook covered, until liquid is absorbed, about 15 to 20 minutes. Avoid removing the lid and letting the steam escape. Remove from heat and quickly stir in the zucchini, and let it stand 5 minutes. Zucchini will steam. Then stir in the parsley and serve sprinkled with toasted almonds. Enjoy!