The Whatever You Have In Your Fridge Orzo Salad.

This pasta salad was inspired by my good friend and foodie idol.  I have probably made it a million different ways and they have all been good.  You can put ANY vegetable you want in it and it would be good.

Ingredients- Must Haves:

• One pound of orzo pasta
• 4 cloves of garlic
• 1/4 cup or more of olive oil
• 1/4 cup Vinegar (rice, red wine, or balsamic) and/or lemon juice
• 4 green onion
• 2 grated carrots
• One diced cucumber
• One cup of salty cheese such as parmesan, ricotta salata, or feta
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Whatever other vegetables you like

Vegetables I have used (you can use ONE or ALL or these.  Or choose your own):

•  One diced and roasted  squash
• 1/2 pint raw sliced mushrooms
• Corn canned or fresh
• One can of black or green olives
•  4 stalks of sliced celery with leaves
• One can of garbanzo beans
• 1-2 hot or sweet peppers
• Fresh basil or thyme
• Cherry tomatoes
• 1/2 pound sliced roasted brussel sprouts
• One can of artichoke hearts

Do you now see why it is called the The Whatever You Have In Your Fridge Orzo Salad?

 Simple Dressing:

Mix 1/4 cup vinegar with 1/4 cup olive oil.  Add salt and pepper to taste.

Fancy Dressing:

1/4 cup olive oil blended with a handful of fresh basil in food processor.  Add the juice of one lemon and salt and pepper to taste.

Directions:

• Boil One pound of Orzo pasta according to the package.  Usually 9-11 minutes.
• When cooked, drain pasta.  Do Not Rinse!
•  Transfer to a large mixing bowl and add dressing while hot.
• While warm add garlic, green onion, any roasted vegetables, mushrooms, and canned beans or vegetables.
• After pasta has cooled to room temperature add carrots, cucumber, and other fresh raw vegetables.
• Refrigerate until ready to serve.
• Right before serving add the juice of one lemon, a splash of olive oil, cheese, and salt and pepper to taste.
• Toss and serve as a side or add chicken or shrimp to make it a meal.

This is one of my go to sides.  Many a potluck have I made this for.  It goes with anything.
Make it.  Eat it.