Description
Garlic Butter Asparagus Orzo is a creamy, one-skillet dish combining tender orzo pasta with sautéed garlic and crisp asparagus in a rich butter sauce. Perfect as a light main or a side dish.
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups vegetable broth (low-sodium, if desired)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup asparagus, trimmed and chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Trim the woody ends off the asparagus and chop into bite-sized pieces. Mince the garlic finely.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the orzo and toast for 1–2 minutes until golden at the edges.
- Pour in the vegetable broth, bring to a gentle simmer, cover, and cook for 8–10 minutes until the orzo is al dente and most liquid is absorbed.
- Push the orzo to one side of the skillet, melt the butter on the other side, add garlic, and cook for 1 minute while stirring.
- Add chopped asparagus and sauté for 3–5 minutes until tender-crisp and bright green.
- Mix the asparagus and garlic butter with the orzo. Season with salt and pepper. Add optional toppings if desired.
- Serve warm as-is or alongside grilled meat or salad.
Notes
- Add lemon juice for a citrusy twist.
- For extra richness, add more butter or Parmesan cheese.
- Grilled chicken or shrimp can be added for protein.
- Dish stores well for up to 3 days in the fridge.
- Reheat in a skillet for best texture or use a microwave for convenience.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
