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Garlic Butter Asparagus Orzo Recipe

Garlic Butter Asparagus Orzo Recipe


4.8 from 81 reviews

  • Author: Chef
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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