Lemon Orzo with Asparagus
Lemon Orzo with Asparagus is a light, fresh side dish made with tender orzo, crisp asparagus, and a bright lemon dressing. Ready in about 30 minutes, it pairs perfectly with chicken, fish, or anything off the grill.
Servings: 6
Calories: 256kcal
Ingredients
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
- 1½ cup dry orzo pasta
- ¼ cup fresh parsley chopped
Instructions
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
Video
Notes
- Don’t rinse the orzo. You want it warm and starchy so it absorbs the dressing properly.
- Zest first, then juice. The zest adds most of the lemon flavor, so don’t skip it.
- Asparagus timing. Blanch just until crisp-tender so it keeps its color and bite.
- Taste before serving. Lemon and salt levels can vary, so adjust at the end to keep everything balanced.
- Serve warm or at room temperature. Both work well, which makes this an easy side for busy dinners or entertaining.
- Leftovers keep well. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days and reheat gently or enjoy at room temperature.
Nutrition
Serving: 1serving | Calories: 256kcal | Carbohydrates: 35g | Protein: 9g | Fat: 10g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 7g | Sodium: 421mg | Potassium: 356mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 787IU | Vitamin C: 20mg | Calcium: 43mg | Iron: 3mg
