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Easy Asparagus Orzo (Ready in 20 Minutes)
Asparagus orzo is a quick, creamy side dish made with tender pasta, fresh asparagus, lemon, and Parmesan. It’s ready in about 20 minutes and pairs perfectly with chicken, seafood, or steak.
Course Dinner, Side Dish
Cuisine Italian
Prep Time 5 minutes minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes minutes
Total Time 20 minutes minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 301 kcal
Get Recipe Ingredients
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the orzo according to package directions. Drain and set aside. Do not rinse.
1 cup Orzo
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant and lightly softened.
3 Tablespoon Butter, 2 clove Garlic
Add the chopped asparagus, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 4–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the asparagus is tender and bright green.
1 pound Asparagus, 1 teaspoon Salt, ½ teaspoon Black Pepper
Stir in the cooked orzo, lemon zest, lemon juice, and Parmesan cheese. Toss until the cheese begins to melt and coat the pasta.
3-4 Tablespoon Fresh Lemon Juice, Zest from 1 lemon, ½ cup Parmesan Cheese
Pour in the milk and stir until everything is creamy and well combined. Let it cook for another 1–2 minutes until warmed through.
¼ cup Milk
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley before serving.
2 Tablespoon Parsley
This lemon asparagus orzo is easy to customize depending on what you have on hand.
Add grilled chicken or shrimp to make it a full meal
Swap asparagus for broccoli, green beans, or snap peas
Stir in feta cheese for a tangier flavor
Add red pepper flakes for a little heat
Calories: 301 kcal | Carbohydrates: 35 g | Protein: 13 g | Fat: 13 g | Saturated Fat: 8 g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1 g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3 g | Trans Fat: 0.3 g | Cholesterol: 33 mg | Sodium: 1152 mg | Potassium: 378 mg | Fiber: 4 g | Sugar: 4 g | Vitamin A: 1411 IU | Vitamin C: 14 mg | Calcium: 211 mg | Iron: 3 mg