• Place the lentils in a pot with enough water to cover by 3 inches and bring to a boil. Add the onion, bay leaf, and oregano, reduce the heat to medium-low, and simmer until the lentils are almost cooked through, 20 to 25 minutes.
• Season with salt and add the orzo. Increase the heat and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt, if necessary, and pepper. Pour in the olive oil. Serve the lentils and orzo in a deep plate, topped with the caramelized onions. Serve hot.

Caramelize the onions

• Heat the olive oil or butter in a large, heavy non-stick skillet over medium-high heat and add the onion. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook, stirring frequently, until the onions are soft and golden brown, 20 to 30 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside as a relish for boiled greens or for lentils and orzo or the other bean dishes.