This Lemon Orzo with Asparagus is an easy and healthy dish that I just simply love, it’s so fresh and delicious. Its bright colours encompass the brightness of flavor in this dish from the zesty homemade lemon vinaigrette. Not to mention, the soft orzo paired with the crunchy asparagus – the perfect combination of flavors and texture! This orzo dish is an ideal option if you’re looking for a quick, healthy recipe that can be added as a side to your dinner or served as is for a great snack or lunch option.
Ingredients
For the dressing
Lemon – Juice and Zest. Garlic – Fresh is best! Minced. Salt and Pepper – To taste. Olive Oil – You Can substitute sunflower oil, vegetable oil, safflower oil or avocado oil.
For the orzo
Asparagus – Cleaned. Chicken Broth – I used low sodium. Water Salt – To Taste Turmeric – For added flavor and colour! Orzo – Dry orzo pasta Parsley – Fresh, chopped – For garnish.
What is orzo?
If you’ve never cooked with orzo before, it’s actually an Italian dried pasta! Orzo is made from white flour or whole grain and is used in some dishes in place of pasta or rice. An interesting fact, orzo in Italian means “barley,” this is why each piece of orzo is in the shape of an unprocessed grain of barley.
How to make lemon orzo with asparagus
Dressing
Orzo
Cooking the perfect asparagus
I used a whole pound of asparagus for this recipe! A simple method of cooking your asparagus is simply to place it in a baking dish (I used a 9×13 inch baking dish) and pour boiling water over it. Cover it with plastic wrap and let it sit until the water is warm to the touch. A perfect no-fuss method to make perfectly cooked asparagus every time!
How to serve
I love using Orzo! Orzo is very versatile – it can be used in soups, salads, or creamy risotto-like dishes, even casseroles! Perfect to use for stuffing peppers or tomatoes, the possibilities are endless. I chose to turn mine into a simple side dish by adding the fresh asparagus and the lemony dressing – I then paired it with delicious garlic and paprika chicken drumsticks and I had the most exquisite and healthy dinner! You can eat this lemon orzo with asparagus as a light healthy lunch or snack, it’s even delicious when cold – almost like a pasta salad. This is one healthy and versatile dish!
How to store leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container – Properly stored, cooked orzo will last for 3 to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Did you like this recipe? Try these!
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Recipe adapted from Tasty Kitchen
