Chickpea and Orzo Salad Recipe
### A Flawless 20-Minute Dinner: Orzo and Chickpeas in a Rich, Creamy Tomato Sauce
When you’re short on time but desire a meal that’s both hearty and tasty, this scrumptious recipe featuring chickpeas and orzo in a creamy tomato sauce is your answer. This dish, often called “Marry Me Chickpeas and Orzo,” is not only quick to make but also bursting with flavor, making it a perfect pick for hectic weeknights.
#### What Makes This Recipe Exceptional
1. **Delectable Aromatics**: The mix of shallots, garlic, and fresh thyme forms a robust flavor foundation that enhances the dish.
2. **Rich Tomato Sauce**: The sumptuous tomato cream sauce takes center stage, offering a rich and fulfilling coating for the orzo and chickpeas.
3. **Superbly Textured Ingredients**: The orzo and chickpeas pair beautifully in both texture and flavor, ensuring each bite is a pleasurable experience.
4. **Rapid and Simple**: This recipe can be whipped up in a mere 20 minutes, making it ideal for those busy nights when you seek something tasty without the lengthy cooking time.
#### Ingredients
– **Main Ingredients**:
– Orzo pasta
– Canned chickpeas
– Shallots
– Garlic
– Fresh thyme
– Tomato paste
– Heavy cream
– Chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian alternative)
– **Optional Additions and Garnishes**:
– Sun-dried tomatoes or fresh tomatoes
– Fresh spinach
– Grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh herbs for decoration
#### Directions
1. **Sauté the Aromatics and Chickpeas**:
– Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
– Add diced shallots and minced garlic, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
– Stir in the chickpeas and tomato paste, cooking for an extra 2-3 minutes until the mixture darkens in color.
2. **Cook the Orzo**:
– Incorporate the orzo, chicken broth, and thyme sprigs into the pan.
– Bring to a gentle simmer, cover, and cook for 7-9 minutes until the orzo reaches tenderness.
3. **Complete the Sauce**:
– Take out the thyme sprigs and keep the heat low.
– Mix in the heavy cream, allowing it to simmer for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce is creamy and rich. Adjust seasoning as desired.
4. **Incorporate Optional Ingredients**:
– Stir in sun-dried or fresh tomatoes and spinach, cooking until the spinach wilts.
– Serve warm, decorated with fresh herbs and grated Parmesan cheese.
#### Nutritional Advantages
This dish is not only fast and straightforward but also healthful. Chickpeas offer a great source of protein and fiber, while the orzo contributes carbohydrates for energy. The addition of fresh veggies and herbs boosts the nutritional value, making it a well-balanced meal.
#### Final Thoughts
“Marry Me Chickpeas and Orzo” exemplifies how a simple blend of ingredients can create a dish that feels both comforting and gourmet. Featuring its creamy tomato sauce and pleasing textures, this recipe is destined to become a staple in your home. Relish this delectable meal any evening of the week, and enjoy the flavors that meld in just 20 minutes!
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