Description
This Garlic Butter Asparagus Orzo is a creamy, flavorful side dish that’s perfect for any meal. The tender orzo pasta pairs beautifully with crisp asparagus, all coated in a rich garlic butter sauce. A simple yet elegant dish that’s sure to impress!
Ingredients
For the Asparagus and Orzo:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 lb asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
-
Cook the Orzo:
a. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package instructions, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside. -
Cook the Asparagus:
a. While the orzo is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
b. Add the asparagus pieces and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until the asparagus is tender but still crisp. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from the pan and set aside. -
Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
a. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
b. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
c. Stir in the lemon zest and lemon juice, then add the cooked orzo and asparagus back into the skillet. Toss to combine and heat through. -
Finish and Serve:
a. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and cook for an additional minute to allow the cheese to melt.
b. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- Customize it: Add grilled chicken or shrimp to make this dish a main course.
- Extra Flavor: If you like a little spice, add red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce for a kick.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 30mg