Mediterranean Orzo with Fresh Vegetables...Zesty!

Mediterranean Orzo with Fresh Vegetables

(Orzo alla Mediterranea con Verdure Fresche)

Ease of preparation: average
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 12 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Regions: Calabria
Wine pairing: Red

Ingredients

1 cup BARILLA Orzo
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
2 cups onion, chopped
2 cups celery, chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
4 plum tomatoes, chopped
1 can (19 ounces) garbanzo beans, rinsed, drained
1 bag (6 ounces) fresh baby spinach, trimmed, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (may substitute 1/2 tsp. dried basil)
1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped (may substitute 1/2 tsp. dried oregano)
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano cheese
HEAT oil in large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion, celery and garlic; sauté 5 to 6 minutes or until crisp-tender, stirring occasionally.
ADD tomatoes and beans; continue cooking 2 to 3 minutes.
COOK Orzo according to package directions; drain.
ADD Orzo, spinach, herbs, red pepper flakes and salt to skillet; continue cooking 1 to 2 minutes or until spinach is wilted.
TRANSFER to serving bowl; sprinkle with cheese