Are you craving a hearty, delicious meal that combines the creamy richness of red beans with the delicate texture of orzo pasta? Look no further! This Red Beans and Orzo recipe is about to become your new go-to comfort dish that's not only incredibly satisfying but also surprisingly simple to prepare. Whether you're a busy home cook or a culinary enthusiast looking for a quick and flavorful meal, this recipe promises to deliver a restaurant-quality experience right in your own kitchen.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup red beans, cooked
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by dicing the onion, mincing the garlic, and ensuring the red beans are cooked and drained.
- Heat a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat and add a small amount of olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Sauté the diced onions until they become translucent and slightly golden, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the onions and cook for an additional 30-45 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Pour the vegetable broth into the skillet and bring the liquid to a gentle simmer.
- Add the orzo pasta to the broth and stir to ensure even cooking, allowing it to cook for about 8-10 minutes or until al dente.
- Gently fold in the cooked red beans and stir to combine and heat thoroughly.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning as needed.
- Remove from heat and let the dish rest for 2-3 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
- Serve hot, garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or chives if desired.
Tips
- Use pre-cooked or canned red beans to save time, but make sure to drain and rinse them thoroughly.
- For extra flavor, consider sautéing the onions and garlic in butter instead of oil for a richer taste.
- Keep stirring the orzo occasionally while cooking to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- If the mixture seems too dry, add a little more vegetable broth to maintain a creamy consistency.
- For a protein boost, consider adding diced chicken or crumbled sausage to the dish.
- Fresh herbs like parsley or chives can elevate the presentation and add a bright, fresh flavor.
- This dish reheats well, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.
- Experiment with different types of beans or add some diced vegetables for variety.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 58g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 3g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
