Garlic Butter Asparagus Orzo – Light, Lemony & Loaded with Flavor

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

• Flavorful: The combination of garlic butter, lemon, and Parmesan creates a rich and satisfying taste.

• Versatile: Enjoy it as a main dish or a side that pairs well with various proteins.

• Seasonal: Showcases fresh asparagus, ideal for springtime meals.

Ingredients

• 1 cup orzo pasta

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)

• Salt and black pepper to taste

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the Orzo: In a medium saucepan, bring vegetable broth to a gentle boil. Add orzo pasta and reduce heat to a simmer. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

2. Prepare the Asparagus: While orzo cooks, heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Add asparagus pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 4-5 minutes until tender yet crisp. Remove from heat and set aside.

3. Combine and Finish: Once orzo is cooked, drain any excess liquid if necessary. Stir in the remaining tablespoon of butter and Parmesan cheese until creamy. Gently fold in the garlic butter asparagus.

4. Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice if desired. Serve immediately while warm.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Cook Time: 25 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add Protein: Incorporate grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a heartier meal.

• Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or thyme for added flavor.

• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to introduce some heat.

• Creamier Texture: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream for extra richness.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth or water to restore creaminess. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

How do I prevent the garlic from burning?

Sauté garlic over medium heat and stir frequently to ensure it cooks evenly without burning.

Can I use frozen asparagus?

Yes, but fresh asparagus provides a better texture and flavor. If using frozen, reduce cooking time slightly.

Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, it's vegetarian-friendly. For a vegan version, substitute butter with olive oil and omit Parmesan or use a plant-based alternative.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare components in advance and combine them just before serving.

What can I substitute for orzo?

Small pasta shapes like acini di pepe, ditalini, or even rice can be used as alternatives. Adjust cooking times accordingly.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes, chopped fresh chili, or a dash of hot sauce to introduce heat.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Consider adding mushrooms, peas, or cherry tomatoes for added variety.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Traditional orzo contains gluten. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free orzo or another suitable pasta.

How do I reheat leftovers without drying them out?

Reheat gently with a splash of broth or water to maintain moisture and creaminess.

Can I freeze this dish?

Freezing is not recommended due to the creamy texture. However, you can freeze individual components separately and combine them when ready to serve.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Asparagus Orzo is a delightful dish that combines simplicity with elegance. Its rich flavors and versatile nature make it a perfect addition to any meal. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with your favorite protein, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.

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Garlic Butter Asparagus Orzo – Light, Lemony & Loaded with Flavor

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A light, lemony, and flavorful dish featuring tender orzo pasta tossed with garlic butter, crisp asparagus, and Parmesan cheese, perfect as a light meal or an elegant side.

• Author: Janet
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Side Dish/Main Dish
• Method: Boiling, Sautéing
• Cuisine: American/Modern
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

1 cup orzo pasta

1 tablespoon olive oil

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces

¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)

Salt and black pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, bring vegetable broth to a gentle boil. Add orzo pasta and reduce heat to a simmer. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
2. While orzo cooks, heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add asparagus pieces to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 4-5 minutes until tender yet crisp. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Once orzo is cooked, drain any excess liquid if necessary. Stir in the remaining tablespoon of butter and Parmesan cheese until creamy.
5. Gently fold in the garlic butter asparagus mixture.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice if desired. Serve immediately while warm.

Notes

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of broth or water, or microwave in short intervals stirring in between.
• For a vegan version, substitute butter with olive oil and use a plant-based Parmesan alternative.
• Use gluten-free orzo or pasta alternatives if needed.
• Enhance flavor with fresh herbs or add a spicy kick with red pepper flakes.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 280
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 350mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 8g
• Cholesterol: 25mg