Description
Creamy garlic butter orzo with asparagus delivers Mediterranean comfort in one delightful pan. Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs elevate this simple yet elegant dish, promising a quick weeknight meal packed with rich flavors you’ll savor.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1/2 pound (227 grams) asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
Flavor Enhancers:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Seasoning:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Toast orzo in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until achieving a golden-brown hue, creating a nutty flavor foundation.
- Introduce butter and minced garlic, sautéing for 1 minute to release aromatic essence and develop a rich, savory base.
- Stream vegetable broth into the skillet, elevating heat to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for 8-10 minutes, periodically stirring to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.
- When orzo approaches tenderness, incorporate asparagus, seasoning with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Continue cooking 3-4 minutes until asparagus reaches a crisp-tender texture.
- Remove from heat, folding in Parmesan cheese, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and vibrant lemon zest to brighten the dish’s overall profile.
- Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley across the surface for a final burst of color and herbaceous note. Serve immediately while piping hot.
Notes
- Toasting orzo before cooking enhances its nutty flavor and prevents clumping, creating a more complex taste profile.
- Use fresh asparagus for the best texture and vibrant green color, ensuring it remains crisp-tender during cooking.
- Swap vegetable broth with chicken broth for a richer flavor, or use water for a lighter version suitable for vegetarians.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to control spice level, making the dish friendly for those with different heat tolerances.
- Prep Time: 6 minutes
- Cook Time: 13 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 580 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 10 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg