Tomato and Basil Orzo Salad

This is from sunset. Posting for safe keeping Times are approximate Notes: Serve this warm salad as a main dish for a light lunch or as a dinner companion to grilled steak, chicken, or fish.

• Ready In: 35 mins
• Serves: 4-6

Ingredients

• 1 1⁄2 cups  dried orzo pasta
• 1 1⁄4 lbs  firm-ripe tomatoes, at room temperature
• 3⁄4 cup  chopped fresh basil leaf
• 1 -2  garlic clove, peeled and minced
• 3  tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 2  tablespoons  balsamic vinegar
•  about 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
•  salt and pepper

Directions

1. In a 3- to 4-quart pan over high heat, bring 1 1/2 to 2 quarts water to a boil. Add orzo and cook until barely tender to bite, 8 to 10 minutes.
2. Meanwhile, rinse and core tomatoes; chop and place in a large bowl. Add basil, garlic, olive oil, and vinegar; mix gently.
3. Drain pasta well and add to tomato mixture. Mix, adding parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper to taste.