Creamy Orzo with Asparagus and Peas
This quick orzo pasta is a great back-pocket weeknight recipe when you want to skip the meat and dairy. It has the same creamy texture as risotto, only cooked in a fraction of the time with no butter or cheese. The fresh medley of spring asparagus and peas contrasts beautifully with the lemony, creamy base, but you can switch it up with any veggies you like. Orzo is a fun pasta shape I often use in recipes, like this Broccoli and Orzo and Orzo with Sausage, Spinach, and Corn. And for more pea recipes, try my pea salad and Instant Pot Risotto with Peas. This easy creamy orzo recipe is from Love and Lemons Simple Feel Good Food by Jeanine Donofrio. This recipe came out delicious, and I don’t even like peas! In her new cookbook, Jeanine divides up each chapter with recipes that require “minimal prep and ingredients” and those made with “food prepared ahead of time.” I didn’t change much of her recipe except for cutting back on the wine and making it 5 servings instead of 4 since it makes a lot. The serving sizes are still generous, and I think you’ll love how good it is!
Creamy Orzo Ingredients
Leeks: Chop the white and light green parts of two leeks. Salt and Pepper for seasoning White Wine: Choose a good-quality dry white wine. If you prefer not to cook with wine, substitute vegetable broth. Garlic: Grate two garlic cloves. Orzo: Weigh 12 ounces of dry pasta using a kitchen scale. Lemon: You’ll need lemon zest and juice. Asparagus: Trim the ends of the asparagus and chop the spears into one- inch pieces. Peas: Use frozen green peas. Garnish with fresh herbs, like basil or tarragon and microgreens (optional).
How to Make Creamy Orzo
What to Serve with Creamy Orzo
This creamy orzo risotto is a filling meal on its own, but you could serve it with salmon, chicken, or a side salad.
How to Store Creamy Orzo
This creamy orzo will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator. To reheat, microwave it until warm.
Variations
Vegetables: Switch up the vegetables with whatever you have – Summer zucchini or broccolini would also be lovely. You could even stir in fresh spinach until it wilts. Protein: If you want to add more protein, try the pasta with diced chicken or shrimp. Cheese: Top the creamy orzo with parmesan or feta.
More Orzo Recipes You’ll Love
Grilled Vegetable Orzo Pasta Salad Shrimp Scampi with Broccoli Orzo Spinach Stracciatella Soup with Orzo Orzo with Sausage, Spinach, and Corn Orzo with Zucchini and Tomato
