LEMON ORZO WITH ASPARAGUS

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LEMON ORZO WITH ASPARAGUS image

If you've never cooked with orzo before, it's actually an Italian dried pasta. The interesting fact is that orzo in Italian means barley so this is why each piece of orzo is the shape of an unprocessed grain of barley. Orzo is very versatile, it can be used in soups or salads, or creamy risotto-like dishes, even casseroles. Orzo is perfect to use in stuffing peppers or tomatoes, the possibilities are endless.

Provided by Russ Myers @Beegee1947

Categories     Pasta Sides

Number Of Ingredients 14

FOR THE DRESSING
1 - lemon, zested
- juice from 1 lemon
3 clove(s) garlic, minced
- salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup(s) olive oil
FOR THE ORZO
1 pound(s) asparagus
2 cup(s) chicken broth
2 cup(s) water
1 teaspoon(s) salt
1/4 teaspoon(s) turmeric
1 1/2 cup(s) dry orzo pasta
1/4 cup(s) fresh parsley, chopped

Steps:

  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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. 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.

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