Description
This creamy orzo with garlic butter asparagus is a luscious and comforting dish perfect for a quick weeknight meal. Tender orzo pasta is combined with vibrant asparagus sautéed in garlic butter, then simmered with rich cream, Parmesan cheese, and vegetable broth to create a velvety sauce. Finished with a touch of lemon zest for brightness, this recipe offers a satisfying balance of flavors and textures in just 25 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Orzo Pasta
- 1 cup orzo pasta
Vegetables
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Optional: zest of 1 lemon, for brightness
Fats and Oils
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Liquids and Dairy
- 2 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
Seasonings
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook Orzo: Bring a medium pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook for about 8–10 minutes, until al dente. Drain the orzo well and set aside.
- Sauté Butter and Oil: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter together with the olive oil, ensuring a smooth buttery base for cooking the asparagus.
- Add Garlic: Add minced garlic to the skillet, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned to release its aromatic flavor.
- Cook Asparagus: Add the asparagus pieces and sauté for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become just tender and maintain their bright green color.
- Combine Orzo and Asparagus: Reduce the heat to low, then add the cooked orzo directly to the skillet with the asparagus, stirring to combine.
- Add Creamy Elements: Pour in the vegetable broth, heavy cream, and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir thoroughly to create a creamy sauce that envelops the orzo and asparagus, heating the mixture through gently.
- Season and Finish: Season the dish with salt, pepper, and lemon zest if using. Mix well and serve the creamy orzo with garlic butter asparagus warm for a comforting meal.
Notes
- Using vegetable broth keeps the dish vegetarian, but chicken broth can be used for a richer flavor.
- Do not overcook the asparagus; it should remain slightly crisp for the best texture contrast.
- The lemon zest adds a fresh brightness that balances the richness of the cream and butter.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute heavy cream and Parmesan with plant-based alternatives.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
