Description
Creamy Orzo with Garlic Butter Asparagus is a comforting and elegant dish that combines tender orzo pasta with crisp-tender asparagus sautéed in garlic butter, all in a creamy Parmesan sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 bunch fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion or 1 shallot, finely chopped
- 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional)
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat 1 tbsp butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add garlic and asparagus; cook for 3–4 minutes until bright green and tender. Remove and set aside.
- Add remaining butter to the skillet and sauté onion or shallot until translucent.
- Stir in orzo and toast for 1–2 minutes.
- Pour in broth, bring to a simmer, and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring often, until orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Lower heat and stir in cream, Parmesan, salt, and pepper. Simmer gently until the sauce thickens.
- Return asparagus to the pan and stir to combine.
- Finish with lemon juice and garnish with fresh herbs. Serve warm.
Notes
- Add peas or spinach for extra greens.
- Top with grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for added protein.
- Use whole milk instead of cream for a lighter version.
- Add goat cheese or feta for a tangy twist.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
