Baked Orzo With Zucchini Recipe

Ingredients for Baked Orzo With Zucchini

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• Olive Oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Leek
• 2 medium zucchini, sliced
• Chunky Marinara Sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Black Pepper
• Mozzarella Cheese
• Italian Seasoning
• Parmesan Cheese

How to Make Baked Orzo With Zucchini

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly oil a heatproof baking dish (approximately 8x8 inches or similar size).
2. Bring 4 cups of water to a rapid boil in a covered saucepan.
3. Add 1 cup of orzo and cook until almost tender, about 5-7 minutes. Drain well.
4. While the orzo cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté 2 minced garlic cloves and 1 thinly sliced leek (white and light green parts only) for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently. Add the sliced zucchini and cook for another 5 minutes, until slightly softened.
5. Add the cooked orzo to the prepared baking dish.
6. Stir in 1 cup of marinara sauce, salt, pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon of Italian seasoning.
7. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese (1/2 cup) over the orzo mixture.
8. Arrange the sautéed zucchini and leek mixture on top of the orzo. Sprinkle with the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese.
9. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the mozzarella is melted and bubbly.
10. During the last 5 minutes of baking, sprinkle with 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese.