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Tuesday, March 13, 2012

Turkey Balsamic Orzo

Tonight's dinner was born from the fact that I had exactly a half hour from star to when we had to leave to attend a school concert. I had thawed some turkey (still left-overs from Thanksgiving), and some kale in advance, hoping to use it up sometime this week. I rummaged the cupboards and realized I didn't have any rice, quinoa, or pasta to serve it with - luckily my parents live downstairs and had a bit of orzo. I gathered up all my random ingredients and just started winging it. I was happily surprised at how delicious it turned out and will definitely be making this again.

Turkey Balsamic Orzo (serves 2 adults and 2 kids or as a side dish)

1 C cooked turkey, chopped
1 small onion, thinly sliced
1 C kale, chopped (mine was pre-cooked, if yours isn't, boil it separately for 3 minutes ahead of time)
1 C orzo
3 C water
1 T olive oil
4 T unsalted butter
1-2 T capers
2 T balsamic vinegar
1 t garlic powder (fresh garlic would be better, but I was out)
1 t Maine sea salt
pepper to taste

In a large skillet heat oil over medium heat, then toss in onions and saute for 3 minutes. Add in kale and mix thoroughly, cooking another 2-3 minutes. Add in water and orzo and turn to high, covering pan until it comes to a boil. Drop it down to a simmer and watch it closely - if pasta starts to stick before it's cooked, add a bit more water and bring it back to a boil, then drop it back to a simmer. Meanwhile, in a separate skillet, heat 2 T butter over medium-high heat and toss in turkey and garlic powder. Cook for about 5 minutes until turkey is heated through. When orzo is done, toss in turkey and remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, and stir thoroughly. Add in salt, pepper capers and balsamic vinegar. Stir thoroughly and serve with a slice of crusty bread. Enjoy!!!

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