Description
Garlic Butter Asparagus Orzo is a simple yet flavorful side dish or light main, combining tender orzo pasta with sautéed asparagus, garlic, and a touch of lemon in a rich butter sauce.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add orzo and cook according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- While orzo cooks, heat olive oil and 1 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add asparagus and cook for 4–5 minutes until tender-crisp.
- Stir in the cooked orzo, remaining butter, Parmesan, lemon juice, and zest. Mix until everything is well combined and heated through.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Garnish with parsley if desired and serve warm.
Notes
- Use thin asparagus for quicker cooking.
- For a protein boost, add cooked chicken or shrimp.
- Tastes great served warm or at room temperature.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 240mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 25mg