Lemon Asparagus Orzo

Lemon Asparagus Orzo

from bakeitwithlove.com
20 min
6 servings

This delicious Lemon Asparagus Orzo combines tender pieces of lightly cooked asparagus with fine orzo pasta in a tangy lemon garlic sauce! Every bite is a refreshingly light flavor combination that pairs especially well with chicken or seafood dinners!

Ingredients

  • 3 cups water ((or a combination of water and broth))
  • 1 cup orzo ((uncooked orzo pasta))
  • 1 lb asparagus ((spears only, or cut into chunks depending on your preference))
  • 2 Tbsp butter
  • 1 Tbsp garlic ((finely minced or crushed))
  • 1 lemon ((zest + 2 tablespoons lemon juice))
  • each, salt & pepper ((to taste))
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese ((grated, or freshly grated when served))

Directions

  1. 1

    In a large saucepan or pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the orzo pasta according to the package instructions. Add the asparagus spears or chunks and cook along with the orzo for the last 3-4 minutes of cooking time. Drain when pasta is tender. *3 minutes for asparagus that is still semi-firm, or 4 minutes for a more fork tender asparagus.

  2. 2

    In a large non-stick skillet or frying pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and saute for about 2 minutes, or until fragrant.

  3. 3

    Add the drained orzo pasta and asparagus to the sauteed garlic and butter. Sprinkle the lemon zest and lemon juice over the pasta, toss to coat. Remove from heat, then add salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately, garnished with Parmesan cheese.