Orzo with Ground Turkey and A Tomato Vinaigrette

I wanted something simple and quick to cook for dinner last night that would incorporate all of the food groups in one dish. This orzo dish was the perfect meal to fit all of those requirements. And of course it also fit my requirement of being delicious.

The ingredients in this dish are fresh, healthy and simple. The lean ground turkey adds protein without adding a lot of fat and the tomato vinaigrette is a great and tasty way to get all of the benefits of tomatoes in a unique way.

For me the basil that is incorporated in the vinaigrette is really what gives this dish big flavor. I love the taste and freshness of basil and it works so well in this meal. Topping the whole dish off with some sharp parmesan cheese shavings is the perfect way to serve it. Enjoy!

Orzo with Ground Turkey and A Tomato Vinaigrette:

(recipe adapted from: http://www.foodnetwork.com)

1 pound orzo

1 pound cherry tomatoes

1 pound 99% lean ground turkey

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, torn

2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

1 tablespoon honey

1 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1/3 cup parmesan cheese, grated

1. Heat a large skillet over medium high heat and add in the cherry tomatoes. Let cook for about 10 minutes, until tender and the skins slightly char.
2. Remove from the heat and transfer the tomatoes to a blender. Add the basil, apple cider vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, honey, salt and pepper to the blender. Blend until well incorporated. Set aside.
3. Spray the same skillet that you cooked the tomatoes in with some non-stick cooking spray. Add the ground turkey, oregano and thyme and cook over medium high heat until the turkey is cooked through. Set aside.
4. Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the orzo until al dente. Drain and transfer to a large bowl. Add in the ground turkey and pour the vinaigrette over the orzo mixture. Mix everything together and top with the parmesan cheese. Serve and enjoy!