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Asparagus orzo in a white bowl with a spoon.
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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
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 301kcal

Ingredients

  • 1 cup Orzo
  • 3 Tablespoon Butter
  • 2 clove Garlic Minced
  • 1 pound Asparagus
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • ½ teaspoon Black Pepper
  • 3-4 Tablespoon Fresh Lemon Juice
  • Zest from 1 lemon
  • ½ cup Parmesan Cheese
  • ¼ cup Milk
  • 2 Tablespoon Parsley Garnish

Instructions

  • 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

Notes

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
Did You Try This Recipe? Let me know!Mention @cookingupmemories and tag #cookingupmemories!

Nutrition

Calories: 301kcal | Carbohydrates: 35g | Protein: 13g | Fat: 13g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Trans Fat: 0.3g | Cholesterol: 33mg | Sodium: 1152mg | Potassium: 378mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 1411IU | Vitamin C: 14mg | Calcium: 211mg | Iron: 3mg
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