Red Pepper Orzo

A simple red pepper orzo that takes just 15 minutes, is only 76p per portion, and just 8 ingredients. Orzo is shaped like short grain rice, and makes a tasty change from the more classic pasta shapes we all know and love. It is super easy to make, and works best in my opinion with simple Mediterranean flavours. Using pantry staples, this makes it the ideal dish to cook when you don’t have much in the fridge.

All you’ll need is:

• Jar of red peppers

• Orzo

• Red onions

• Garlic

• Thyme

• Balsamic vinegar

• Red chilli flakes (or tabasco)

• Basil

Start by cooking up the orzo in a pan of boiling salted water for around 8-10 minutes, until al dente.

Meanwhile, chop up the ingredients, including the roasted red peppers. Though these are a pricier ingredient, they make up a lot of the flavour for the dish. Keeping everything else simple makes them shine, and keeps the costs down at the same time. I always have them in the cupboard as they’re super sweet and soft, and full of flavour.

Start by frying the red onion in olive oil in a large pan until softened. Next add in the garlic and cook for a minute or so, and add in your chopped roasted red peppers. Stir and mix everything through. It should smell incredible.

Add in a splash of balsamic vinegar (I say splash because I like to add a lot, but some may prefer less as it is a taste that can be strong), the dried herbs, chilli flakes, and season generously.

When your orzo is cooked, drain and toss with olive oil. Then when the red pepper mix is ready, pour in the orzo and stir together. Tear in some fresh basil for extra fragrance.

Serve topped with extra basil, an extra grind of black pepper, and some optional vegan parmesan or nutritional yeast.