Orzo with Feta and Almonds

Name: Orzo with Feta and Almonds
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 servings.
Ingredients: 1 package (16 ounces) orzo pasta; 1 large onion, chopped; 8 tablespoons olive oil, divided; 2 cups (8 ounces) crumbled feta cheese; 1 cup sliced almonds, toasted; 1/2 cup dried currants; 3 tablespoons minced fresh parsley; 2 tablespoons minced fresh oregano or 2 teaspoons dried oregano; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 2 teaspoons grated lemon zest; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon pepper

Quick-cooking orzo pasta is the secret to getting this side dish on the table in a jiffy. It pairs well with a variety of entrees.—Clara Coulston, Washington Court House, Ohio

Ingredients

1 package (16 ounces) orzo pasta
1 large onion, chopped
8 tablespoons olive oil, divided
2 cups (8 ounces) crumbled feta cheese
1 cup sliced almonds, toasted
1/2 cup dried currants
3 tablespoons minced fresh parsley
2 tablespoons minced fresh oregano or 2 teaspoons dried oregano
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 teaspoons grated lemon zest
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper

Directions

Cook orzo according to package directions. Meanwhile, in a large skillet, saute onion in 1 tablespoon oil until tender. Drain orzo; transfer to a large bowl. Add the cheese, almonds, currants, parsley, oregano and onion.
In a small bowl, whisk the lemon juice, zest, salt, pepper and the remaining olive oil. Drizzle over orzo mixture; toss to coat.