Description
This Garlic Butter Asparagus Orzo is a quick and flavorful main or side dish, blending tender orzo pasta and vibrant asparagus in a rich, garlicky butter sauce. Finished with Parmesan cheese, it’s comfort food that’s simple enough for busy weeknights, yet elegant enough for guests. Perfect as a vegetarian main or served alongside your favorite proteins.
Ingredients
Scale
Orzo & Asparagus
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 lb asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 cups vegetable broth (for added flavor when cooking orzo—optional)
For Sautéing
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 4 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
To Finish
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Orzo and Asparagus: Bring a large pot of salted water (or use vegetable broth for extra flavor) to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package instructions. About 5 minutes before the orzo is done, add the asparagus pieces. Continue cooking until the orzo is al dente and the asparagus is tender-crisp. Drain together, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
- Make the Garlic Butter: While the orzo and asparagus are cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the butter and olive oil. Once melted and bubbly, stir in the minced garlic. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant but not browned.
- Combine: Add the drained orzo and asparagus to the skillet. Toss to coat everything in the garlic butter. If the mixture looks dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water for a silkier texture.
- Stir in Cheese: Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until it melts and the dish is creamy. Adjust with additional reserved water if needed for consistency.
- Season and Serve: Season the orzo mixture with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if you like heat). Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan. Enjoy as a main or side!
Notes
- Add a splash of lemon zest for fresh, bright flavor when sautéing the garlic.
- For a creamier orzo, stir in a splash of heavy cream or milk before serving.
- Boost protein by adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
- Mix in extra veggies like cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, or spinach for more color and nutrients.
- Use vegetable broth for more flavorful orzo, but water is also fine.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main-course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Mediterranean-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 340
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 30mg