Creamy Italian Orzo

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Orzo is a small italian pasta that looks very much like rice. This dish is a fabulous blend of creaminess which gently balances the punch of the onion and garlic. Peas and cremini mushrooms are an added surprise in this dish that can be eaten as a side or a main course.

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Steps

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Bring a salted water to a boil over high heat.

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Add the orzo and cook until tender but still al dente , stirring often , about 8 minutes.

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Drain , saving 1 cup of the cooking liquid.

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Meanwhile , heat oil in large frying pan over medium heat.

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Add onion , mushrooms and garlic , and saute until tender , about 2 minutes.

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Stir in the half and half and peas.

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Add the orzo and toss to coat.

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Remove pan from heat.

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Add parmesan to pasta mixture.

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Stir pasta mixture until the sauce coats the pasta thickly , adding enough reserved cooking liquid to maintain a creamy consistency.

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Season the orzo with desired amount of salt , and serve hot.

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Chunks of chicken or shrimp could be added if you choose to serve this as a main dish.

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Ingredients

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orzo pasta, extra virgin olive oil, onion, garlic cloves, cremini mushroom, half-and-half, canned peas, parmesan cheese, salt