Easy Asparagus Orzo (Ready in 20 Minutes)
Jill Machovsky
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.
Prep Time 5 minutes mins
Cook Time 15 minutes mins
Total Time 20 minutes mins
Course Dinner, Side Dish
Cuisine Italian
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
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