ORZO W/GRAPE TOMATO SALAD

INGREDIENTS

2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

1 teaspoon honey

1/2 cup olive oil

1/4 cup balsamic vinegar

6 cups chicken broth

1 pound orzo (or riso)

2 cups red and yellow teardrop or grape tomatoes, halved

1 7-ounce package feta cheese, cut into 1/2-inch cubes (about 1 1/2 cups) (may use another kind of cheese such as fresh mozzarella, or pepper jack.)

1 bell pepper, chopped

1 cup chopped fresh basil

1 cup chopped green onions - optional

1/2 cup pine nuts, toasted (may use sliced almonds) - optional

DIRECTIONS

Whisk vinegar, lemon juice, and honey in small bowl. Gradually whisk in oil. Season vinaigrette with salt and pepper. (Can be made 2 days ahead. Cover and chill.)

Bring broth to boil in large heavy saucepan. Stir in orzo, reduce heat to medium, cover partially, and boil until tender but still firm to bite, stirring occasionally. Drain. Transfer to large wide bowl, tossing frequently until cool.

Mix tomatoes, chopped pepper, cheese, basil, and green onions into orzo. Add vinaigrette; toss to coat. Season with salt and pepper. (Can be made 2 hours ahead. Let stand at room temperature.) Add pine nuts; toss. Serve at room temperature.

Modified from epicurious.com
Submitted by Raven Albertson