144.8...Sauteed Zucchini with Orzo

The Sautéed Zucchini with Orzo that I made to go with the Parmesan Chicken the other night was one of the best side dishes I’ve ever had. It takes zucchini to a whole new level of awesomeness. 

Sautéed Zucchini with Orzo (Serves 4-6) 

Recipe from Phillis Carey

Ingredients:

3/4 lb. small zucchini 

1 tsp. salt

1 cup orzo

2 Tbsp unsalted butter

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan 

Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Thinly slice zucchini. Sprinkle with 1 tsp salt. Let stand 20 minutes. Squeeze zucchini between hands until as dry as possible.

2. Cook orzo in a large pot of boiling salted water. Cook until just tender, 8 to 10 minutes. Drain thoroughly, reserving 1/2 cup of the hot pasta water.

3. Melt butter in a 10-inch non-stick skillet over medium high heat. Add garlic and zucchini and toss about 5 minutes or until crisp tender. Stir in the orzo and toss to heat through, adding as much pasta water as necessary to make a bit of sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve sprinkled with Parmesan cheese.

Printable Recipe

Last night, my husband and I went to our friend, Lila’s surprise 40th birthday party at Delicias. 

We enjoyed some cocktails before the birthday girl arrived. She was definitely surprised!

The birthday girl is in the middle:

We enjoyed several delicious passed appetizers as well as a buffet. 

Happy Birthday Lila!!

This morning’s breakfast was scrambled egg beaters, onions, spinach, red potatoes and cheddar cheese. 

We packed up the car and headed to Palm Desert to visit my mom. My brother, sister in law and their new baby were visiting too. We went to lunch at my favorite Mexican Restaurant, Fresh Agave. 

Table -Side Guacamole:

We all shared the Taco Fiesta Plate which was chicken, carnitas, chorizo and carne asada, toppings, sides and tortillas. You make your own tacos. 

Fabulous! I love Fresh Agave!!

We will spend the rest of the day here then head back to San Diego. Enjoy the rest of your day!

Favorite way to eat zucchini? 

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