Here’s a creamy, garlicky, buttery Garlic Butter Asparagus Orzo that’s quick, elegant, and packed with fresh flavors—perfect as a side dish or light main course!
Ingredients (Serves 4)
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1 ½ cups orzo pasta
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2 cups fresh asparagus, trimmed & cut into 1-inch pieces
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3 tbsp butter (or olive oil)
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4 garlic cloves, minced
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½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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¼ cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter version)
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1 tbsp lemon juice
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½ tsp salt
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¼ tsp black pepper
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¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
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2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
1️⃣ Cook the Orzo – Boil orzo in salted water according to package instructions (usually 8-9 mins). Drain, reserving ½ cup pasta water.
2️⃣ Sauté Asparagus – In a large skillet, melt 1 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add asparagus and cook 3-4 mins until crisp-tender. Remove and set aside.
3️⃣ Garlic Butter Sauce – In the same skillet, melt remaining 2 tbsp butter. Add garlic and sauté 30 secs until fragrant (don’t let it brown).
4️⃣ Combine Everything – Stir in cooked orzo, asparagus, Parmesan, cream, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Toss well, adding reserved pasta water as needed for creaminess.
5️⃣ Garnish & Serve – Top with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan.
Serving Ideas
🍽 Pair with grilled chicken, shrimp, or salmon.
🌿 Vegan option: Use olive oil, nutritional yeast, and coconut cream.
🧀 Extra indulgence: Stir in a spoonful of cream cheese.
This dish is ready in 20 mins and tastes like spring in a bowl! 🌱 Let me know if you’d like variations. 😊