This One Pot Orzo with Asparagus and Peas is a quick and tasty dish! The fluffy orzo is mixed with tender asparagus and bright peas, making it colorful and fun to eat.
Cooking everything in one pot means less cleanup, which I love! It’s the perfect dish for busy days when you want something delicious but simple. Who knew cooking could be this easy? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orzo Pasta: This tiny pasta cooks quickly and absorbs flavors well. If you don’t have orzo, try ditalini, couscous, or even rice for a different texture.
Vegetable or Chicken Broth: I love using vegetable broth for a lighter flavor, but chicken broth adds a richer taste. If you’re vegetarian, stick with vegetable broth or use water with some herbs for extra flavor.
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus adds crunch and color. If it’s not in season, you can use broccoli or green beans as substitutes. They work just as well and still keep the dish vibrant!
Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan gives a salty and nutty flavor. If you need a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast adds a cheesy taste without the dairy. You can also use Pecorino or Grana Padano.
How Do I Cook the Orzo Perfectly?
Cooking orzo can be tricky since it can easily overcook and become mushy. Here’s how to nail it:
- Always use enough liquid; I recommend 2 cups of broth for 1 cup of orzo.
- Once added to simmering broth, reduce heat to medium-low and cover the pot. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Check the texture a minute or two before the cooking time ends. It should be al dente (cooked but still firm).
These simple tips will help you achieve perfectly cooked orzo every time! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make One Pot Orzo With Asparagus And Peas
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth
- 1 cup asparagus, chopped into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon (zest and juice)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious one-pot meal takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook. So, set aside about 30 minutes from start to finish, and you’ll have a creamy, flavorful dish ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large pot or deep skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. This will create a wonderful base for your dish.
2. Add the Asparagus:
Next, add the chopped asparagus pieces to the pot. Sauté them along with the onion and garlic for another 2-3 minutes. You want them to start softening but still retain a bit of crunch—this will give your dish great texture!
3. Cook the Orzo:
Now it’s time to add the orzo pasta and the vegetable (or chicken) broth to the pot. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the pot. Let it cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally. The orzo will absorb the broth and become tender.
4. Incorporate Peas and Lemon:
After the orzo is cooked and the liquid is mostly absorbed, add the peas, lemon zest, and lemon juice to the pot. Stir everything well and heat through for an additional 2-3 minutes. The peas will add a lovely sweetness, and the lemon will brighten up the flavors!
5. Mix in Parmesan:
Remove the pot from the heat and sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and everything is creamy. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed—adjust to your preference.
6. Serve and Garnish:
Your one pot orzo with asparagus and peas is ready to enjoy! Serve warm and garnish with fresh basil or parsley if you like. Dig in and enjoy this delightful meal!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta for This Dish?
Absolutely! If you don’t have orzo on hand, you can substitute with other small pasta shapes like ditalini or even small shells. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed, since different pasta may require varying lengths of time to cook.
What Can I Substitute for Parmesan Cheese?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast is a great substitute that adds a similar cheesy flavor. For a non-dairy alternative, you can also use vegan Parmesan cheese. Just keep in mind that the overall taste might vary slightly!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of broth or water to help restore moisture, and warm it gently in a pot on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
Can I Add More Vegetables to This Recipe?
Yes, you can definitely ramp up the veggie content! Consider adding spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini. Just be sure to chop them into similar sizes for even cooking. You may need to sauté them for a few extra minutes along with the asparagus to soften them before adding the orzo.
