Orzo and Toasted Barley

Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon canola oil
• 1 cup quick-cooking barley
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 2 1/2 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth
• 1/2 cup orzo
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme or 1 teaspoon dried thyme leaves
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives or scallion greens
• Salt & freshly ground pepper to taste

Directions

Heat oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add barley and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden and toasted, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook, stirring, for 1 minute more. Pour in broth and bring to a boil. Add orzo and thyme. Stir once, reduce heat to low, cover and simmer for 10 minutes. Remove from the heat and let stand for 5 minutes to absorb any remaining liquid. Stir in chives (or scallion greens) and season with salt and pepper.