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Welcome to a culinary journey that celebrates the freshness of spring with a delightful dish: Zesty Lemon Butter Orzo with Asparagus. This vibrant and delicious recipe brings together the bright flavors of lemon, the tender crunch of asparagus, and the comforting texture of orzo pasta. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant side dish for a spring gathering, this recipe has you covered. With its ease of preparation and nutritional benefits, it's no wonder that this dish is becoming a favorite among home cooks.

Lemon Butter Orzo with Asparagus

Discover the vibrant flavors of spring with this Zesty Lemon Butter Orzo with Asparagus recipe! This delightful dish combines the tender crunch of asparagus and the comfort of orzo pasta, all tied together with a rich lemon butter sauce. It's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant side for gatherings. Packed with nutrients and bursting with freshness, this orzo dish is sure to become a favorite among home cooks. Enjoy the essence of spring on your plate!
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Ingredients
  

1 cup orzo pasta

1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces

3 tablespoons unsalted butter

Zest of 1 lemon

2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Salt and pepper, to taste

2 cups vegetable or chicken broth

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions
 

Cook the Orzo: In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable or chicken broth to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Before draining, reserve 1/2 cup of the broth for later use. Drain the orzo and set aside.

    Blanch the Asparagus: While the orzo cooks, bring a separate pot of water to a boil. Add the asparagus pieces and blanch for about 2-3 minutes until they are bright green and tender-crisp. Immediately transfer the asparagus to an ice bath to stop the cooking. Once cooled, drain and set aside.

      Prepare the Lemon Butter Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the lemon zest, lemon juice, and optional red pepper flakes (if using). Stir gently and let it simmer for about 1 minute to infuse the flavors.

        Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked orzo and blanched asparagus to the skillet with the lemon butter sauce. Toss everything together gently to combine. If the mixture seems dry, add the reserved broth gradually until you reach your desired consistency.

          Finish with Cheese and Herbs: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well until the cheese melts and coats the orzo.

            Serve: Divide the lemon butter orzo with asparagus among serving plates. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and parsley if desired, and enjoy the refreshing flavors!

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 min | 25 min | Serves 4