Lemon Orzo with Asparagus

User Reviews

4.6

540 reviews
Excellent
  • Prep Time

    10 mins

  • Cook Time

    10 mins

  • Total Time

    30 mins

  • Servings

    6

  • Calories

    256 kcal

  • Course

    Side Dish

  • Cuisine

    American

Lemon Orzo with Asparagus

This Lemon Orzo with Asparagus is a simple, yet elegant dish that could be served as a side dish or starter.

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Ingredients

Servings

For the dressing

  • 1 lemon zested
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • ¼ cup olive oil

For the orzo

  • 1 pound asparagus
  • 2 cups chicken broth low sodium
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon Turmeric
  • cup dry orzo pasta
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley chopped
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Instructions

  1. Place the lemon zest, juice, garlic, salt, and pepper in a deep medium bowl. Add oil and whisk until it emulsifies a bit. Set aside.
  2. Snap the end pieces off the asparagus and lay the asparagus stalks in a baking dish, 9x13 inch. Pour boiling water over the asparagus (just enough to cover it), cover dish with plastic wrap and let sit until the water is warm to the touch. Drain water and cut the asparagus stalks into 2 inch pieces.
  3. Place the chicken broth and water in a large pot and bring to a boil. Add the salt and turmeric and bring back to a boil. Add the orzo and cook until tender, about 10 minutes. Drain orzo, but do not rinse it.
  4. Place the hot orzo in a large bowl, add the asparagus and parsley. Whisk the dressing if needed and pour it over the salad. Mix well. Top with butter if preferred.

Notes

  • Boost the Flavor: Add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or a squeeze more lemon juice right before serving for an extra zing.
  • Texture Twist: For added crunch, toss in some toasted pine nuts or breadcrumbs.
  • Herb Variations: Feel free to swap parsley with basil or mint to change up the herbal notes.
  • Make it a Meal: Incorporate grilled chicken or shrimp to turn this side dish into a hearty main course.

Nutrition Information

Show Details
Serving 1serving Calories 256kcal (13%) Carbohydrates 35g (12%) Protein 9g (18%) Fat 10g (15%) Saturated Fat 2g (10%) Polyunsaturated Fat 1g Monounsaturated Fat 7g Sodium 421mg (18%) Potassium 356mg (10%) Fiber 3g (12%) Sugar 3g (6%) Vitamin A 787IU (16%) Vitamin C 20mg (22%) Calcium 43mg (4%) Iron 3mg (17%)

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 6Serving

Amount Per Serving

Calories 256 kcal

% Daily Value*

Serving 1serving
Calories 256kcal 13%
Carbohydrates 35g 12%
Protein 9g 18%
Fat 10g 15%
Saturated Fat 2g 10%
Polyunsaturated Fat 1g 6%
Monounsaturated Fat 7g 35%
Sodium 421mg 18%
Potassium 356mg 8%
Fiber 3g 12%
Sugar 3g 6%
Vitamin A 787IU 16%
Vitamin C 20mg 22%
Calcium 43mg 4%
Iron 3mg 17%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.

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Overall Rating

4.6

540 reviews
Excellent

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