This Calabrian chili orzo with vegetables is a fabulous side dish that is perfect when paired with salmon. The heat is toned down by the addition of crème fraîche.
6 ounces orzo
2 tablespoons creme fraiche
1 teaspoon Calabrian chili paste, or more to taste
1 teaspoon olive oil
1 zucchini, or 2 if small, cut lengthwise and sliced into half moons
1/2 cup sliced sweet peppers
2 cloves garlic, minced, or more to taste
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Bring a pot of lightly salted water to a boil, add orzo, and cook, uncovered, until tender, 8 to 10 minutes. Turn off the heat, drain thoroughly, and return orzo to the pot. Add crème fraîche and Calabrian chili paste. Set aside and keep warm.
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil. Once oil is shimmering, add vegetables, and saute for 4 to 5 minutes. Stir in garlic, and sauté until fragrant, about 45 seconds. Add Italian seasoning and season with salt and pepper. Remove vegetables from heat.
Gently stir vegetables into orzo. Serve immediately.