Seared Scallops with Lemon Orzo

Makes 4 servings  ...  Serving size: 4-1/2 ounces scallops / about 3/4 cup pasta mixture
**Cooking spray** 1/2 ................cup prechopped onion 
1 ...................cup uncooked orzo (rice-shaped pasta)
1 ...................cup fat-free, less-sodium chicken broth
1/2 ................cup dry white wine $
1/4 ................teaspoon dried thyme
2 ...................tablespoons chopped fresh chives
2 ...................tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 ...................teaspoons olive oil
1-1/2............. pounds sea scallops
1/4 ................teaspoon salt
1/4 ................teaspoon black pepper 

1 .      Heat a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Coat pan with cooking spray. Add onion to pan; sauté 3 minutes. Stir in pasta, broth, wine, and thyme; bring to a boil. Cover, reduce heat, and simmer 15 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and pasta is al dente. Stir in chopped chives and lemon juice. Keep warm.
2 .      Heat oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Sprinkle scallops evenly with salt and pepper. 3 .      Add scallops to pan; cook 3 minutes on each side or until desired degree of doneness. Serve with pasta mixture. Serve this easy but impressive meal with a green salad, garlic bread, and a crisp white wine.
Tip:
Sear the scallops while the orzo cooks.
Heart  healthy