PARTNER POST — Grilling season is here and it is time to explore Italian grilling with authentic ingredients from Colavita.
With basic pantry staples you can create a flavorful vegetable side dish on the grill or a perfect backyard orzo to take to a barbecue gathering.
By Rebekah Hubbard
Summertime is finally here. Let’s get out the grill, shall we? I’m excited to show you guys some amazing summer grilling recipes today using Colavita ingredients. What I’ve really enjoyed about working with their collection of tasty products is that I’ve gotten to see how much flexibility you can enjoy with a kitchen stocked with of excellent pantry items. 
I made an orzo pasta salad for one, because if there’s anything I personally need it’s a stockpile of great recipes to bring to someone else’s barbecue. It’s great for making ahead, and it can be made almost entirely with pantry staples from Colavita.
But sometimes, the party comes to you! When you’re the host, you may be in need of new grilling ideas for your backyard bash.
It’s easy to fall into a rut when grilling. So for the second recipe I chose to make the ultimate grilled vegetables. The grill is for more than just burgers and brats, you know! (And no offense to those delicious burgers and brats.) But try out some of these flavorful veggies and you won’t even notice that bowl of chips. They’re that good!
And they’re a nice reminder that even though grilling feels very indulgent, it doesn’t have to be unhealthy. There’s no reason you can’t take your good eating habits outside with you.
And – get ready for it – these two recipes actually taste fabulous together. So if you want, top your orzo salad with the grilled veggies and you’ve got a complete meal!
Grill Like an Italian with Colavita: Italian-Style Grilled Veggies and Orzo
Description
With basic pantry staples you can create a flavorful vegetable side dish on the grill or a perfect backyard orzo to take to a barbecue gathering.
Ingredients
Ultimate Grilled Vegetables
- 4-6 carrots, halved
- 1 lb. broccoli rabe
- 2-4 medium onions, cut into 8 wedges
- 1 lb asparagus, ends trimmed
- 2 tbsp. Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- 2 Tbsp. balsamic vinegar
- 2 Tbsp. capers, drained
- Rachel Ray Sea Salt
- Rachel Ray freshly cracked ground pepper
For the orzo salad:
- 2 cups (dry) Orzo, prepared according to the package directions
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup Basil Pesto
- 2 Tbsp. drained Capers
- 2 Tbsp. Garlic Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- 2 tsk. Champagne Vinegar
- 1/4 cup fresh chopped parsley
- 1 shallot, minced
- Rachel Ray Sea Salt
- Freshly ground Rachel Ray black pepper
Instructions
Ultimate Grilled Vegetables
- Clean all vegetables. Blanche the broccoli rabe in boiling water for 30 seconds and remove to an ice bath. Dry and toss all vegetables with Extra Virgin Olive Oil.
- Spread over the grill grate and cool until vegetables have softened considerably. Remove to a large platter and drizzle with balsamic vinegar. Salt and pepper liberally.
For the orzo salad:
- Roughly chop the tomatoes and capers, then toss them in a big bowl with the cooked orzo, parsley and shallot. Add in the garlic olive oil, pesto and vinegar and toss to combine. Top with sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper.
- Category: Sides
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of vegetables work best for grilling in this recipe?
Zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant are excellent choices for grilling as they hold up well and take on flavor beautifully.
Can I use a different type of pasta instead of orzo for the salad?
Yes, you can substitute orzo with other pasta shapes like farfalle or penne, but keep in mind the cooking time may vary.
How do I ensure the grilled vegetables are cooked evenly?
Cut the vegetables into similar sizes and preheat your grill to medium-high heat to achieve even cooking.
