Caroline's Saucy Kitchen

A quick meal for lunch or dinner. Leftover veg can be added as well if you want more variety.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 slices of streaky bacon cut into very small pieces
• 2 garlic cloves crushed
• 1 large shallot, diced
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
• 2 1/2 cups boiling water
• salt (to taste)
• 1 tablespoon soft unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan
• black pepper

Preparation Method:

1. Warm the oil in a heavy-based pan that will take all the ingredients later.
2. Cook the bacon, stirring until it becomes crispy and brown. Add the shallot and garlic. Cook for a couple of minutes and stir everything. Then add the peas and stir for a couple of minutes or so until the frozen look leaves them.
3. Add the orzo and mix well, then pour in the boiling water. Add salt to your taste. Turn down the heat and leave to simmer for about 10 minutes. Check on it a couple of times and give a stir or two to stop it from sticking. See if you need to add a little more hot water.
4. When it’s ready, the pasta should be soft and starchy and the water absorbed. Beat the butter and Parmesan into the pan, check the seasoning, and serve promptly.