The Spicy Spatula

Sometimes you just get a craving for something and you have to have it. Maybe it’s not a craving, per se, but just a desire to have a certain flavor combination. Does that ever happen to you?

It rarely happens to me and i love it, just seeing where the ingredients take me and my husband from one day to the next. Recently though, I was in the mood for Mediterranean flavors. Maybe it’s the unseasonably warm temperatures or maybe it’s because I’m ready (beyond ready) for another vacation, but I wanted it and so I made it.

The thing I love about Mediterranean flavors and vegan food is that they are simple but pack a huge flavor punch. Herbs, tomato, lemon juice and garlic…what’s not to like?

This Mediterranean vegan recipe is super easy to make, takes less than thirty minutes to cook and will make whoever eats it think you spent a long time in the kitchen. The biggest tip I have for vegan Mediterranean cooking? Fresh herbs and spices whenever you can. There’s nothing like fresh oregano even though it is highly impractical since I never use it all. But it does usually end up in my waste free broth.

So, let’s get this Mediterranean party started, yeah?

Kitchen Tools:

*Kitchen knife
*Cutting board
*Spatula (for stirring)
*Medium stock pot
*Skillet

Ingredients:

*Orzo
*Onion
*Garlic
*Red bell peppers
*Fresh & Sundried tomatoes (chopped)
*Tomato paste
*Lemon juice
*Capers
*Spinach (I used frozen but fresh will also work)
*Vegan meatballs (not necessary but absolutely delicious

Instructions:

*Measure and rinse orzo and cook according to package instructions.

*Pre-heat skillet over medium-high heat, adding waste-free broth if you’re looking for oil free vegan recipes, or your favorite oil.

*Chop onion and add to the skillet, cooking 5 to 7 minutes, until they become fragrant.

*Add in tomatoes (fresh & sundried), garlic, spinach and bell peppers.

*Stir and cook 5 to 8 minutes, until everything starts to really cook.

*Add tomato paste and capers, along with water or waste free broth and stir to prevent sticking. Stir regularly and then add vegan meatballs.

*When the orzo is ready, do not drain, just add to the skillet and stir, adding more liquid if necessary. Stir until everything is blended.

*Simmer for 3 to 5 minutes and turn off heat. Let the vegan orzo dish sit for 5 minutes and then serve.

*Garnish with fresh basil or oregano and chili pepper flakes. Squeeze lemon juice over the top.

*Enjoy!

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