This One Pot Orzo with Asparagus and Peas is a bright and tasty dish, perfect for any meal! The creamy orzo pairs wonderfully with crunchy asparagus and sweet peas for a fun and colorful plate.
Making this is a breeze! Just toss everything in the pot, let it simmer, and you’ll have a warm, comforting dish in no time. I love how it feels like spring on a plate! 🌱
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orzo Pasta: This small pasta is perfect for one-pot dishes. If you need a substitute, use any small pasta like couscous or quinoa for a gluten-free option. I usually stick to orzo for that lovely texture!
Broth: Vegetable or chicken broth gives depth of flavor. If you don’t have either, water with a splash of soy sauce or even vegetable bouillon can work too. I love using homemade broth for even more flavor!
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus makes this dish green and vibrant. You can swap it out for green beans or broccoli if asparagus isn’t in season. I always go for seasonal veggies to get the best taste!
Parmesan Cheese: Adds a great salty finish. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can mimic that cheesy flavor. Personally, I think fresh grated Parmesan takes this dish up a notch!
How Do You Make Sure the Orzo is Perfectly Cooked?
Getting the orzo just right is key to this recipe. You want it al dente, which means it’s cooked but still has a little bite. Here’s how:
- Toast the orzo in olive oil for 2-3 minutes. This step adds flavor and helps keep the orzo from becoming mushy.
- When you add the broth, stir to combine. This helps distribute the heat and flavor evenly across the pasta.
- Keep an eye on the cooking time as orzo can go from perfect to overcooked quickly. Begin checking around the 10-minute mark to see if it’s ready.
How to Make One Pot Orzo With Asparagus And Peas
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup asparagus, chopped into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1/2 cup onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious one pot orzo recipe will take about 30 minutes total. You’ll need around 10 minutes for prep and 20 minutes for cooking. It’s perfect for a quick and tasty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Once it’s warm, add the diced onion. Sauté it for about 5 minutes, or until it’s soft and translucent. Then, stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for another minute until it smells wonderful.
2. Toast the Orzo:
Add the orzo pasta to the pot and toast it for 2-3 minutes. Make sure to stir frequently so it doesn’t burn. This step adds a nice flavor to the dish!
3. Cook the Ingredients:
Now it’s time to pour in the broth and add the chopped asparagus. Bring everything to a gentle simmer. Once it’s simmering, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
4. Add Peas and Flavor:
After the orzo is cooked, stir in the frozen peas, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the peas are heated through. This adds a nice burst of freshness!
5. Finish and Serve:
Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Serve your one pot orzo warm, garnished with extra Parmesan and some fresh parsley or basil if you like. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Substitute Another Type of Pasta for Orzo?
Absolutely! If you don’t have orzo on hand, you can use a small pasta shape like ditalini, couscous, or even rice. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as different pastas and grains may require adjustments for the liquid and cooking duration.
What if I Don’t Have Fresh Asparagus?
No problem! You can replace fresh asparagus with other vegetables. Broccoli, green beans, or even bell peppers would work well. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces and adjust the cooking time for the veggies you choose to ensure they cook through.
How to Store Leftovers?
Leftover orzo can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of broth or water to prevent it from drying out and warm it over low heat on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I Make This Dish Vegan?
Sure! Simply omit the Parmesan cheese or replace it with a vegan cheese alternative. Also, make sure to use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep it fully plant-based. You’ll still have a delicious and satisfying meal!
