Description
This fresh and vibrant Lemon Orzo with Asparagus and Halloumi is a delicious vegetarian dish that’s perfect for a light lunch or side dish. The tangy lemon, crisp asparagus, and savory grilled Halloumi come together to create a flavorful and satisfying meal. Quick and easy to make, it’s a perfect spring or summer recipe!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 8 oz Halloumi cheese, sliced into 1/4-inch thick pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1–2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh herbs (such as parsley, mint, or basil) for garnish
- Optional: A drizzle of olive oil or a few tablespoons of balsamic vinegar for extra flavor
Instructions
- Cook the orzo: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the orzo according to package instructions (typically 7-9 minutes). Drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water in case you need to loosen the dish later.
- Cook the asparagus: While the orzo is cooking, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the asparagus and sauté for 4-5 minutes until tender but still crisp. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Set aside.
- Grill the Halloumi: In the same skillet, add the Halloumi slices and cook over medium heat for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Combine the ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked orzo, sautéed asparagus, and Halloumi slices. Add the lemon juice, lemon zest, and minced garlic. Toss gently to combine, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh herbs and serve warm or at room temperature. Optionally, drizzle with a little extra olive oil or balsamic vinegar for added richness.
Notes
- You can add a handful of toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds for extra texture.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute the orzo with gluten-free pasta or rice.
- Halloumi is a salty cheese, so be mindful of the amount of salt you add to the dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 13g
- Cholesterol: 0g