Description
Creamy Orzo with Garlic Butter Asparagus is a flavorful, quick, and easy dish perfect for weeknight dinners or as a side dish. Tender asparagus pairs beautifully with creamy Parmesan orzo, infused with garlic and a hint of lemon for a bright finish.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
- Add the asparagus pieces to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender but still crisp. If using, sprinkle in the red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- Once the asparagus is cooked, add the drained orzo to the skillet. Stir in the remaining tablespoon of butter, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is combined and heated through.
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- For extra creaminess, you can stir in a splash of heavy cream or milk before serving.
- Feel free to substitute vegetable broth with chicken broth for added flavor if preferred.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course or Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 13 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 10 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg
Keywords: Creamy Orzo, Garlic Butter Asparagus, Quick Dinner, Parmesan Orzo