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lemon orzo with asparagus in a bowl
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4.62 from 175 votes

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.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Total Time30 minutes
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Keyword: asparagus recipe, lemon orzo
Servings: 6
Calories: 256kcal

Ingredients

For the dressing

  • 1 lemon zested
  • 2 tablespoon 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

Instructions

Dressing

  • 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.

Orzo

  • 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.

Notes

  1. Store leftovers in an airtight container - Properly stored, cooked orzo will last for 3 to 5 days in the refrigerator.

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