Orzo With Root Vegetables

2 cloves garlic, minced
1 Tbs olive oil
14.5oz can vegetable broth
1/4 cup water
1/2 tsp dried thyme, crushed
1/8 tsp ground red pepper
3/4 cup orzo
2 medium carrots, cut into thin strips
1 medium turnip, cut into thin strips
1 medium red bell pepper, cut into thin strips
15oz can red beans, rinsed and drained

1) In a large saucepan, cook garlic in hot oil just until tender. Stir in stock, water, thyme, and ground red pepper. Bring to boiling. Stir in orzo and carrots. Simmer, covered, for 10 minutes.
2) Stir turnip, red bell pepper, and red beans into orzo mixture; return to boiling. Simmer, covered, for 2 to 3 minutes more or until orzo is tender.

Review: This was super yummy. No overwhelming flavor prevailed, it just all complemented each other! The turnip adds a nice peppery spice to the dish, that I'm learning I like and need to find more turnip dishes!

Made again on 1/28/2012, but used a mix from Trader Joe's:

This blend was much better than just plain orzo. It cooked in the same amount of time, but required twice as much broth (I used the whole bag). This dish was done in 20 minutes and was a good, hearty meal.