Calabrian Chili Orzo with Vegetables Recipe

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients

• 6 ounces orzo
• 2 tablespoons crme frache
• 1 teaspoon Calabrian chili paste, or more to taste
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 1 zucchini, or 2 if small, cut lengthwise and sliced into half moons
• 1/2 cup sliced sweet peppers
• 2 cloves garlic, minced, or more to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Directions

1. Bring a pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add orzo and cook uncovered for 8 to 10 minutes until tender. Once done, turn off the heat, drain the orzo thoroughly, and return it to the pot. Add the crme frache and Calabrian chili paste, stirring gently. Set aside and keep warm.
2. While the orzo is cooking, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Once the oil is shimmering, add the sliced zucchini and sweet peppers. Saut for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and continue to saut for about 45 seconds, or until fragrant.
4. Stir in the Italian seasoning, and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
5. Remove the skillet from the heat. Gently fold the sauted vegetables into the orzo.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrient	Amount	% Daily Value*
Calories	166
Total Fat	5g	7%
Saturated Fat	2g	11%
Cholesterol	9mg	3%
Sodium	240mg	10%
Total Carbohydrate	26g	10%
Dietary Fiber	2g	8%
Total Sugars	5g
Protein	5g	10%
Vitamin C	43mg	48%
Calcium	36mg	3%
Iron	1mg	8%
Potassium	367mg	8%

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

This delightful Calabrian Chili Orzo with Vegetables combines the warmth of Calabrian chili paste, creamy crme frache, and vibrant vegetables, making it an irresistible side dish. Served alongside grilled fish or chicken, its the perfect accompaniment to any meal. But there's much more to this dish than just flavorits a celebration of Italian tradition, regional diversity, and culinary history.

Origin and History of Calabrian Chili Orzo

The Calabrian chili paste used in this dish is derived from the peperoncino, a variety of small, hot chili peppers grown in the Calabria region of southern Italy. Calabria is famous for its spicy cuisine, where the peperoncino is used in everything from pastas to meats, adding a fiery kick to traditional Italian fare. Calabrian chili paste is made by blending these peppers with olive oil, salt, and sometimes vinegar, creating a concentrated and potent ingredient that infuses dishes with heat and complexity.

Regional Features of Calabrian Cuisine

Calabrian cuisine, often referred to as the cuisine of the south, is characterized by its bold flavors, rustic simplicity, and emphasis on local ingredients. Calabrias hot climate allows for the cultivation of peppers, tomatoes, and olive oil, all of which form the backbone of many regional dishes. The addition of Calabrian chili paste in this recipe is a nod to the fiery taste of the region, offering a unique twist on the more commonly used mild peppers found in other Italian dishes.

How Calabrian Chili Orzo Differs from Similar Dishes

While orzo dishes are popular across Italy, the inclusion of Calabrian chili paste sets this recipe apart from other orzo variations. Typically, orzo is cooked in a more neutral broth or served with light sauces, making it a versatile base. However, the combination of chili paste and crme frache adds a distinct layer of heat and creaminess to the dish. This contrast between spicy and creamy is what makes this dish stand out from its milder counterparts, such as a simple Mediterranean orzo salad or a Parmesan-based orzo dish.

Where Calabrian Chili Orzo is Typically Served

In Italy, dishes featuring Calabrian chili are often served in the southern regions, particularly Calabria itself, as well as in other Mediterranean coastal areas. The Calabrian chili orzo is an excellent side dish to complement seafood, particularly grilled fish like salmon, or roasted meats. The heat from the chili and the freshness of the vegetables make it a perfect side for rich, flavorful mains. It is also common to find similar orzo dishes in Italian trattorias, especially when they aim to offer a more contemporary twist on classic pasta recipes.

Fun Facts About Calabrian Chili Orzo

• Calabrian chili paste is made from one of the hottest chili peppers in the world, known for its intense spiciness and deep, smoky flavor.
• Orzo, despite its name and appearance, is not a type of rice but rather a small pasta shaped like a grain of rice.
• The creamy crme frache used in the recipe helps to mellow the heat of the Calabrian chili paste, creating a balanced flavor profile.
• While orzo is typically used in Italian cuisine, its versatility has made it a popular ingredient worldwide, often found in salads, soups, and casseroles.

With its rich history, unique regional influences, and ability to transform simple ingredients into a spectacular dish, Calabrian Chili Orzo with Vegetables is a must-try for anyone looking to explore the bold flavors of southern Italy. Whether you're an adventurous cook or just a lover of Italian food, this dish is sure to impress!

FAQ about Calabrian Chili Orzo with Vegetables Recipe