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One Pot Orzo with Asparagus and Peas Recipe

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4.2 from 4 reviews

This One Pot Orzo with Asparagus and Peas is a simple, flavorful, and wholesome meal perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Combining tender asparagus, sweet peas, and creamy Parmesan cheese, all cooked together with orzo pasta in a single pot, it delivers a comforting dish full of fresh spring flavors in just 30 minutes.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Vegetables and Aromatics

  • 1 medium red onion, diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, sliced
  • 3/4 lb asparagus, trimmed and cut into bite-size pieces
  • 1 cup frozen or fresh peas

Pantry and Dairy

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
  • 3 1/2 cups vegetable stock
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1/2 lemon, juice and zest
  • 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

Instructions

  1. Sauté the Aromatics: Melt the butter in a skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the diced red onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened. Then add the sliced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant to build a flavorful base.
  2. Add Asparagus: Stir in the asparagus pieces and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step softens the asparagus slightly while infusing it with the buttery flavors.
  3. Toast the Orzo: Add the orzo pasta to the pot and stir to coat it with the butter and vegetables. Toast the orzo for about one minute, which enhances its nutty flavor.
  4. Add Peas and Stock, Simmer: Pour in the peas and vegetable stock. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer. Cook uncovered for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the orzo is tender but still al dente.
  5. Season and Add Lemon: Stir in the salt, ground black pepper, lemon zest, and lemon juice to brighten and balance the flavors of the dish.
  6. Finish with Parmesan: Remove from heat and fold in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan on top if desired.

Notes

  • For a creamier texture, you can add a splash of cream or more butter at the end.
  • Fresh peas offer a sweeter flavor compared to frozen, but either works well.
  • If you prefer a nuttier taste, use whole wheat orzo or substitute with another small pasta shape.
  • Make sure to stir occasionally during simmering to avoid orzo sticking to the bottom of the pot.
  • This recipe is vegetarian. To make it vegan, substitute butter with olive oil and Parmesan with a plant-based cheese alternative.
  • Author: Daisy
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Find it online: https://dishiary.com/one-pot-orzo-with-asparagus-and-peas-recipe/