Summer Orzo Salad

In addition to the basil and parsley we plant every year, there is a little corner in our backyard where each summer, a plethora of mint pops up.  Initially, I wasn’t quite sure how to infuse this potent herb into any recipes with the obvious exception of adding a sprig to a tall glass of iced tea.  So, last year, I did a little research and tried out these three suggestions, all of which were surprisingly simple and delightful.  Recently, when I spotted this elevated version of a summer orzo salad, I knew I had to attempt it just for the mint alone.  The combination of the basil and mint give it a nice little kick especially when coupled with sweet grape tomatoes, garbanzo beans and a red wine vinaigrette.  Of course, no meal is complete without a teeny bit of cheese so I felt the need to crumble some feta on top…well worth the last step particularly when served slightly warm.  All the flavors come together to create what my kids say is “a party in your mouth.”