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Health & Fitness

LEMON RICOTTA ORZO WITH PEAS

Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup olive oil
  • 2/3 cup minced shallots
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice
  • 2 teaspoons minced garlic
  • 2 teaspoons lemon zest
  • 1/2 package (dry) Good Season's Italian Dressing mix
  • 1 pinch salt to taste
  • 1 pinch pepper to taste
  • 2 cups orzo pasta
  • 1 cup frozen peas, thawed and cooked
  • 1 to 1-1/2 cup good whole milk ricotta cheese
  • 1/3 cup fresh minced mint leaves 

  1. In a bowl, combine the olive oil, shallots, lemon juice, garlic, lemon zest, salt, pepper and dry Good Seasons Italian Dressing mix. Allow to sit for 1/2 hour.
  2. In a pot bring salted water to a boil over high heat.
  3. Stir in the orzo pasta and allow to cook for 10-13 minutes until al dente.
  4. Strain the pasta and rinse briefly under cold water.
  5. Place the pasta in a serving bowl and stir in the oil mixture. Combine well. Allow to cool to room temperature.
  6. When the pasta has cooled add the peas, ricotta cheese and mint.
  7. Combine well and allow to sit at room temperature for one hour.
  8. Add salt and pepper to taste and serve.
Serves 4 people

*** I like to add some toasted almonds to this dish. It gives it a nutty flavor and and a nice crunch!

***  A great salad to take to work because there is no mayo to worry about.
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