Baked Tomatoes With Basil Orzo

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Nice mediterranean flavor for a light supper. could substitute yellow or green bell peppers for the tomatoes. (cut off tops and seed. omit the salting step)

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Steps

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Cut the tops off the tomatoes and scoop out the seeds and pulp.

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Sprinkle the insides with salt and drain upside down on paper towels for half hour.

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Melt the butter in a 2-quart skillet.

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Add the shallot , red pepper and garlic.

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Cook until softened , about 5 minutes.

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Add the orzo and pepper.

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Simmer 2 minutes.

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Pour in 1 cup broth and simmer until all the liquid is absorbed.

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Add 1 / 2 cup broth and repeat cooking.

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Add 1 / 4 cup more broth and simmer until orzo is tender.

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Remove from heat and add the cheese , pine nuts and pesto.

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Mix well and fill hollow tomatoes with mixture.

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Place tomatoes in a baking dish and pour remaining broth around tomatoes and cover with foil.

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Bake in pre-heated 400-degree f.

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Oven for 15 minutes.

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Remove foil and bake 10 minutes longer.

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Ingredients

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tomatoes, salt, unsalted butter, shallot, red bell pepper, garlic clove, orzo pasta, black pepper, chicken broth, mozzarella cheese, pine nuts, pesto sauce