Peach, Bacon & Basil Orzo Pasta Salad

Peach, Bacon & Basil Orzo Pasta Salad

Peach, Bacon & Basil Orzo Pasta Salad

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups dry orzo, reserve pasta water

• 12 oz bacon, cooked & crumbled 

• 2 peaches, diced 

• 1 cup chopped basil

• 4 oz crumbled goat cheese, plus more for topping

• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

• 1/2 tsp salt or to taste

• 1/2 tsp black pepper 

• optional to serve/top: arugula, drizzle of balsamic syrup, pistachios, more goat cheese & bacon

Directions:

1. Cook orzo according to package directions, drain and reserve pasta water.

2. Let orzo cool slightly then toss with bacon, goat cheese, basil, garlic, salt and pepper. 

3. Stir in pasta water gradually until desired creamy consistency is reached (at least 1 cup!).

4. Gently toss in peaches. I like to serve it over orzo and top with extra bacon, goat cheese, a drizzle of balsamic syrup and pistachios!