Cheesy Cheddar Orzo with Leeks & Chard

Forget what you think you know about “macaroni and cheese”; this grown-up style, cheesy pasta recipe features Parmesan, sharp white Cheddar and mascarpone alongside fresh greens and hearty, whole-wheat orzo.

INGREDIENTS

• 1 (1-pound) package DeLallo Organic Whole-Wheat Orzo Pasta
• 1 bunch white Swiss chard
• 2 leeks
• 3 tablespoons DeLallo Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• 2 cloves garlic, smashed
• A pinch red pepper flakes (optional)
• DeLallo Sea Salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• 1/2 cup shredded sharp white Cheddar
• 4 ounces mascarpone cheese
• 3 tablespoons DeLallo Grated Parmesan Cheese
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1/2 cup milk

DIRECTIONS

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil for pasta.
2. In the meantime, prepare chard by removing stems and cutting into 1/4-inch lengths. Cut leaves 1-inch lengthwise. Prepare leeks by removing tough green tops. Cut in half, lengthwise, rinse clean, and then across in 1/4-inch lengths.
3. Heat olive oil in a large saucepan with garlic and pepper flakes. Once garlic has become golden and fragrant, remove and discard. Sauté chard and leeks in oil, adding 2 to 3 tablespoons of water. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover and allow to cook until swiss chard stems are tender.
4. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water, if necessary to loosen sauce.
5. Toss hot pasta and greens together in the saucepan. Add cheeses, butter and milk. Stir to fully incorporate. Serve immediately.