Garlic Butter Asparagus Orzo

Garlic Butter Asparagus Orzo is a light yet comforting dish made with tender orzo pasta, crisp asparagus, and a rich garlic butter sauce. It’s a flavorful side or simple main that brings together springtime freshness and cozy comfort in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this dish comes together in just one pan and under 30 minutes. The orzo soaks up the garlic butter beautifully, and the asparagus adds a bright, crisp contrast. It’s incredibly versatile—great as a vegetarian meal, or I can pair it with grilled chicken, salmon, or shrimp for a complete dinner.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Orzo pasta

• Fresh asparagus (trimmed and chopped)

• Garlic (minced)

• Unsalted butter

• Olive oil

• Vegetable or chicken broth

• Lemon juice and zest (for brightness)

• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

• Salt and pepper

• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Directions

1. I heat a bit of olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.

2. I add the orzo and toast it lightly for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently.

3. I stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

4. I pour in the broth and bring it to a simmer. I cook the orzo for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until most of the liquid is absorbed and the orzo is tender.

5. In the last 3–4 minutes of cooking, I stir in the chopped asparagus so it cooks through but stays vibrant and crisp.

6. I finish with a pat of butter, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, and a sprinkle of lemon zest. I season with salt and pepper to taste.

7. I stir in Parmesan if using, then top with parsley and serve warm.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings. It takes about 10 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to cook—ready in around 25 minutes.

Variations

Sometimes I stir in peas or spinach for extra greens. I’ve also added grilled chicken, shrimp, or pan-seared scallops to turn it into a full meal. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes adds a little heat if I want a spicy twist.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I add a splash of broth or water and warm it in a skillet or microwave until hot and creamy again.

FAQs

Can I use frozen asparagus?

Yes, I thaw and pat it dry before adding it in during the last few minutes of cooking to prevent it from getting soggy.

Can I use water instead of broth?

I can, but broth adds more flavor. If using water, I season more generously with salt and herbs.

What’s the best type of Parmesan to use?

I use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and smooth melting. Pre-shredded works in a pinch.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, I use olive oil instead of butter and skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

Does this work as a meal on its own?

Absolutely. It’s filling enough as a light vegetarian meal, but I often pair it with protein for a heartier option.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Asparagus Orzo is a quick, fresh, and satisfying dish that’s packed with flavor and ready in no time. With its creamy texture, bright lemon notes, and crisp asparagus, it’s a go-to in my kitchen when I want something simple yet elegant. Whether as a side or a light main, it always delivers comfort with a seasonal twist.