Garlic Butter Asparagus Orzo
This Garlic Butter Asparagus Orzo is a creamy one-skillet side or light main dish that combines tender pasta with crisp asparagus, sautéed garlic, and a rich buttery finish.
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 tough ends off the asparagus and chop into bite-sized pieces. Mince the garlic finely.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Toast the orzo for 1-2 minutes until golden. Add vegetable broth, bring to a 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. Melt butter on the empty side, then sauté garlic for 1 minute. Add asparagus and cook for 3-5 minutes, until tender-crisp.
- Mix the garlic butter and asparagus into the orzo. Season with salt and pepper. Optionally, add Parmesan, lemon zest, or red pepper flakes.
- Serve warm, on its own or with grilled chicken, fish, or a salad. The orzo should be creamy, and the asparagus tender-crisp.