Saffron Orzo Pasta Recipe with Goji Berry & Pistachio Pesto
Looking for pesto with a punch? This orzo recipe with goji berries and a delicious pistachio pesto sauce has got you covered. Goji berries have been used in traditional Chinese medicine for over 2,000 years, but you can skip the ancient elixirs and simply enjoy them with delicious orzo pasta. This super-fruit is a two-for-one ingredient that adds both nutritional benefits and decadent flavor to this antioxidant-packed vegetarian pesto pasta recipe. Delicate threads of saffron and tasty homemade pistachio pesto provide the finishing touch.
Saffron Orzo with Goji Berry-Pistachio Pesto
Serves: 8Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 7 minutes
Ingredients
4 cups water
8 strands saffron (½ teaspoon)
1 pkg. (1 lb.) Barilla® Orzo
1 cup goji berries
½ cup roughly chopped red onions
½ cup toasted pistachios
1 clove garlic
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons orange zest
2 tablespoons orange juice
1 tablespoon roughly chopped dill
1 tablespoon roughly chopped tarragon
Directions:
1. Add water and saffron to large pot. Bring to boil. Add orzo pasta; cook on medium-high heat 7 min. Remove from heat; cover to keep warm.
2. Combine remaining ingredients in food processor. Pulse until mixture is slightly chunky but not pureed to make pesto sauce.
3. Add pesto to orzo pasta; mix well. Season to taste with kosher salt.
Ingredient Tip: Goji berries are native to the Himalayas and an excellent source of antioxidants. Look for them in the dried fruit or bulk food section of the grocery store, or in health food stores.
Serving Suggestion: Garnish with additional chopped pistachios and fresh tarragon
Photo Credit: Lou Manna