Lentils & Orzo Extravaganza Recipe

Name: Lentils & Orzo Extravaganza
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup Lentils (washed and picked over); 2 Large Cans Diced Tomatoes; 1 Large Can Whole Tomatoes; (these can be mixed and matched depending on how much texture you like); 1 lb good ground beef; 1/2 lb pepperoni; 1/4 Cup GOOD red wine; 1/4 cup red wine vinegar; 1/2 box Orzo; 3T. thyme; 3T. oregano; 2T. basil; crushed red pepper flakes (to taste); 3t. salt; 2t. pepper; 1/2 small onion - diced; Olive oil

Servings: persons

1 cup Lentils (washed and picked over)
2 Large Cans Diced Tomatoes
1 Large Can Whole Tomatoes
(these can be mixed and matched depending on how much texture you like)
1 lb good ground beef
1/2 lb pepperoni
1/4 Cup GOOD red wine
1/4 cup red wine vinegar
1/2 box Orzo
3T. thyme
3T. oregano
2T. basil
crushed red pepper flakes (to taste)
3t. salt
2t. pepper
1/2 small onion - diced
Olive oil

1
Olive oil in saute pan
2
Saute pepperoni quickly till slightly brown and has rendered most of its fat.
3
remove pepperoni to bowl to drain
4
Saute beef in the pepperoni fat, season meat with 1T oregano, thyme, and basil.
5
When browned, remove to same bowl as pepperoni and sweat onion.
6
While you are doing the sauting. In a large Stock pot or Dutch oven (at least 8 quart) Bring lentils to a boil in salted water and simmer till al dente (25 - 30 min usually does it, be careful not to over cook as you want the texture of the lentils.) Drain the Lentils return to pot add the pepperoni, ground beef, Tomatoes, wine, red wine vinegar, and spices. Bring to Boil then reduce to simmer. Let simmer till reduced by 1/4. Check for taste (salt, pepper, spices). Add the Orzo, stir regularly to prevent sticking. If more liquid is needed use more wine, beef stock, or water. Recheck Season level. Simmer till Orzo is Al Dente (about 10 min). Serve with nice crusty bread!

681

kcal

Calories

Fat

Carbs

Protein

Fat Carbs Protein

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.

Tips for the best results

Read through all the steps once before you start and measure out your ingredients first — it makes everything go more smoothly.
Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning before serving.
Avoid overcrowding the pan — cook in batches if needed for the best texture.
Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving so the flavors settle.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy within a few days.

Variations & substitutions

Feel free to swap in similar ingredients you already have on hand and adjust seasoning to taste.

No specific allergen information. Please check the ingredient list for possible allergens.

My Personal Notes

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How did you like this recipe?

This recipe makes 4 servings. You can adjust the portion size directly on this page.

You need 17 ingredients. The key ingredients include: 1 cup Lentils (washed and picked over), 2 Large Cans Diced Tomatoes, 1 Large Can Whole Tomatoes, (these can be mixed and matched depending on how much texture you like), and more.

Yes, Lentils & Orzo Extravaganza falls under the Pasta & Noodles category and is a great choice for this type of meal.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently before serving.

That's it — enjoy your meal!

Lentils & Orzo Extravaganza

Tips for the best results

Variations & substitutions

My Personal Notes

How did you like this recipe?

Frequently Asked Questions