Description
A creamy and zesty orzo pasta dish featuring tender asparagus, fresh garlic, and bright lemon flavor, ideal for a light yet satisfying Mediterranean-inspired main course meal.
Ingredients
Orzo Pasta
- 1 cup orzo pasta
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 bunch asparagus, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
Seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook Orzo: Cook the orzo pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside to keep warm.
- Sauté Asparagus: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped asparagus and cook for 3–4 minutes until tender but still crisp.
- Cook Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Add Cream: Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Allow the sauce to cook until it slightly thickens, stirring occasionally.
- Incorporate Cheese and Lemon: Stir in the grated parmesan cheese along with the lemon juice and lemon zest, mixing well to combine and create a creamy sauce.
- Combine Orzo and Sauce: Add the cooked orzo to the skillet and toss everything together to ensure the pasta is evenly coated with the asparagus cream sauce.
- Season and Serve: Season the dish with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve warm, optionally garnished with extra parmesan or fresh herbs.
Notes
- Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
- Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.
- Garnish with extra parmesan cheese and fresh herbs like parsley or basil for enhanced flavor and presentation.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-inspired
