What You Need:

 

1 1/3 C of orzo pasta

2 T of olive oil

2 T of butter

4 shallots, chopped fine

1 C of pistachios, chopped

1 C of dried cranberries

1 C of heavy whipping cream

1 1/4 C of chicken broth

1 t of salt

1/2 t of pepper

 

How to Make It:

 

Cook the orzo according to the directions on the package and drain well.

Place the oil and butter into a skillet placed over medium heat.

When the butter has completely melted stir in the shallots.

Cook the chopped shallots in the butter oil mixture for 1 minute.

Stir the pistachios into the mixture.

Sauté for 2 minutes or until lightly browned.

Stir in the cranberries, cream and the chicken broth.

Cook 5 minutes or until thickened, stirring occasionally.

Stir the orzo into the mixture well.

Sprinkle with the salt and pepper and stir to combine.

Reduce the heat to low and cook 5 minutes or until the orzo is heated through. 

 

Makes 8 servings

 

Preparation Time:  approximately 15 minutes

Cooking Time:  approximately 8 minutes

Total Time:  approximately 23 minutes

 

This tasty pasta dish adds cranberries and a bit of crunch to your Christmas dinner.  The red cranberries and lightly green pistachios give this dish all the color of Christmas.  Add it to your buffet and see just how fast it goes.