Description
A delicious and easy side dish featuring tender asparagus and orzo pasta in a rich, buttery garlic sauce. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, offering a perfect balance of flavor and texture.
Ingredients
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1 cup orzo pasta
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1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
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2 tbsp olive oil
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4 tbsp butter
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4 garlic cloves, minced
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Salt and pepper to taste
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1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
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1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
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Cook the orzo: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package instructions (usually 7-9 minutes). Drain and set aside.
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Cook the asparagus: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the asparagus and cook for 3-4 minutes until tender, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper.
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Make garlic butter sauce: Push the asparagus to one side of the skillet. Add butter and minced garlic to the other side. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
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Combine the orzo and asparagus: Add the cooked orzo to the skillet with the garlic butter and asparagus. Toss everything together to coat evenly in the butter and garlic sauce.
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Finish the dish: Stir in the Parmesan cheese and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
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Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy!
Notes
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Feel free to add a squeeze of lemon juice for extra freshness.
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For a richer flavor, you can use a mix of butter and olive oil.
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If you prefer, you can substitute the asparagus with other veggies like peas or green beans.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 30mg