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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.

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

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)

Salt and black pepper to taste

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

Find it online: http://recipesbyjanet.com/garlic-butter-asparagus-orzo-light-lemony-loaded-with-flavor/