One Pot Orzo With Asparagus And Peas

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Orzo Pasta: This rice-shaped pasta gives a nice texture to the dish. If you don’t have orzo, you can substitute it with quinoa, couscous, or even small shells for a different take.

Vegetable Broth: Vegetable broth adds depth of flavor. If you’re not vegetarian, chicken broth works just as well. For a lighter option, you can use water with a splash of soy sauce or nutritional yeast for some umami.

Asparagus: Fresh asparagus is best, but if it’s not in season, you can use green beans or snap peas instead. Both will add a nice crunch!

Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan gives a rich, cheesy flavor. You can use Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.

How Do I Get My Onions to Sauté Perfectly?

Sautéing onions can be tricky; you want them soft and sweet, not burnt. Follow these steps for great results:

• Use a medium heat setting. This allows the onions to cook evenly.
• Add a pinch of salt while cooking; this helps draw out moisture and speeds up softening.
• Stir occasionally but not too much. Let them sit in the pan for a bit to develop color.
• Cook for 3-4 minutes until they are translucent. If they start to brown too quickly, reduce the heat.

Perfect sautéed onions will elevate your dish’s flavor! Enjoy your cooking journey!

How to Make One Pot Orzo with Asparagus and Peas

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Pasta Dish:

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
• 1 cup asparagus, chopped into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lemon, juiced and zested
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This delicious one-pot meal will take about 25-30 minutes. Expect around 10 minutes for prep (chopping and measuring) and about 15-20 minutes for cooking. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a busy weeknight!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:

Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until it turns translucent. This makes the base of our dish flavorful. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it’s wonderfully fragrant.

2. Toast the Orzo:

Now it’s time to add the orzo pasta! Stir it in and toast it for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently. This little step adds a nice depth of flavor to the pasta.

3. Add Broth and Veggies:

Pour in the vegetable broth and bring everything to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat to medium-low and toss in the chopped asparagus and frozen peas. Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the orzo to be tender and most of the liquid to be absorbed—it’s like magic!

4. Mix in Flavorful Ingredients:

After the orzo is cooked, remove the pot from heat. Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and the grated Parmesan cheese. Season it all with salt and pepper to taste—give it a good mix until everything is well combined.

5. Serve and Enjoy:

Now, it’s time to enjoy your meal! Serve the orzo warm, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top. Dig in and relish the flavors!

## FAQ

Can I Use Fresh Peas Instead of Frozen?

Absolutely! If you prefer fresh peas, you can use them in place of frozen. Just make sure to add them during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, as they take less time to cook compared to frozen peas. This will ensure they remain bright and tender.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to reheat, add a splash of broth or water to loosen up the orzo before warming it in the microwave or on the stovetop, as it can become thick when stored.

Can I Add Other Vegetables?

Definitely! This dish is quite versatile. You can add vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. If using sturdier vegetables like carrots, chop them smaller and add them at the same time as the asparagus to ensure everything cooks evenly.

What Can I Substitute for Parmesan Cheese?

If you’re looking for a substitute for Parmesan, you could use Pecorino Romano for a similar flavor or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option. Just adjust the amount to taste, as these cheeses can vary in saltiness.