Go Back
–+ servings
lemon orzo and asparagus in a white bowl garnished with lemon slices.
Print Recipe Add to Collection
4.63 from 178 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
Author: Joanna Cismaru

Equipment

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
US Customary - Metric

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.
    process shots showing how to make lemon orzo with asparagus.
  • 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.
    process shots showing how to make lemon orzo with asparagus.
  • 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.
    process shots showing how to make lemon orzo with asparagus.
  • 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.
    process shots showing how to make lemon orzo with asparagus.

Notes

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

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