1.26.2012

Easy Brussels Sprout And Bacon Orzo

Brussels sprout and bacon orzo

This easy brussels sprout and bacon orzo is one of those dishes that doesn't require too many ingredients, takes less than a half-hour to make, and instantly hits the spot. I wanted something comforting but not too heavy, so I thought the combination of orzo, brussels sprouts, bacon, and Parmesan would be perfect. As I tasted the finished dish, I noticed it needed just a little zing, so I stirred in some citrus champagne vinegar. You could just as easily add a squeeze of lemon and a little white wine vinegar.

Brussels sprout and bacon orzo

Easy Brussels Sprout And Bacon Orzo
Serves 1

Ingredients

1/2 cup orzo
2 slices bacon
10 brussels sprouts, trimmed and shredded (using slicing blade of food processor)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon thyme leaves
1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper
1/2 teaspoon citrus champagne vinegar

Preparation

Cook orzo according to package directions in salted water.

Meanwhile, cook bacon in a medium skillet over medium-high heat until crisp. Transfer to paper-towel-lined plate. When cool, crumble and set aside.

Cook brussels sprouts in skillet in bacon grease along with 1 tablespoon olive oil, until softened and golden brown. Reduce heat to low, and stir in thyme.


Once orzo is ready, drain it and stir it into brussels sprouts along with remaining 1 tablespoon oil. Then stir in Parmesan, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Off heat, stir in vinegar. Transfer brussels sprout mixture to dish, top with crumbled bacon, and dig in!

Brussels sprout and bacon orzo

Are you on the brussels sprout bandwagon?