Baked Orzo

2 t. olive oil
1 c. finely chopped onion
3 cloves garlic, crushed
1 8-oz. can salt-free or regular tomato sauce
3 c. water
1 t. dried basil
1/8 t. pepper
1/16 t. ground cinnamon
Salt to taste
1 c. orzo, uncooked
Grated Parmesan cheese, optional

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Lightly oil a 1-3/4-qt. casserole or spray with a nonstick cooking spray.

Heat oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and garlic and cook 5 minutes or until onion starts to brown. Stir frequently while cooking.

Add tomato sauce, water, basil, pepper, cinnamon, and salt. Bring to a boil, then stir in orzo and remove from heat. Spoon into prepared casserole.

Bake uncovered, 45 minutes, stirring twice during cooking time.

Stir before serving. Sprinkle lightly with Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Serves 6.

Adapted from The Meatless Gourmet, p. 269.