Lorenzo Devereaux
A light yet flavorful dish, Orzo with Asparagus & Feta brings together tender pasta, vibrant green asparagus, and creamy crumbles of feta for a refreshing Mediterranean-inspired meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing side dish, this recipe balances bright citrus notes, nutty almonds, and the salty tang of feta cheese.
Whether you’re serving it warm or chilled, this dish offers the perfect balance of textures—soft orzo, crunchy almonds, and crisp-tender asparagus. Pair it with grilled chicken or enjoy it as a satisfying vegetarian option for lunch or dinner.
What Kind of Orzo Should I Use?
A traditional durum wheat orzo works beautifully for this recipe because it cooks quickly and holds its shape well. Whole wheat orzo can be used for a heartier, nutty flavor, while gluten-free varieties made from corn or rice are perfect for those with dietary needs. The key is to cook it al dente so it maintains a pleasant bite when mixed with the other ingredients.
Ingredients for the Orzo with Asparagus & Feta
Orzo – A small rice-shaped pasta that absorbs flavors beautifully and forms the base of the dish.
Asparagus – Brings a fresh, earthy taste and a crisp texture that pairs well with the creamy feta.
Feta Cheese – Adds a salty, tangy creaminess that complements the asparagus and pasta.
Almonds – Toasted for extra crunch and a nutty depth of flavor.
Olive Oil – A good-quality extra virgin olive oil enhances the Mediterranean flavors.
Garlic – Infuses the orzo with a savory aroma.
Lemon Juice & Zest – Brightens the dish with a fresh citrusy kick.
Fresh Herbs (like dill or parsley) – Provide a burst of freshness and color.
Salt & Pepper – Essential for seasoning and balancing the flavors.
How To Make the Orzo with Asparagus & Feta
Step 1: Cook the Orzo
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain, then toss lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Sauté the Asparagus
Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add asparagus pieces and sauté for 4–5 minutes until crisp-tender. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Toast the Almonds
In a separate dry skillet, toast the almonds over medium heat for 2–3 minutes until golden and aromatic. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
Step 4: Combine Everything
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked orzo, sautéed asparagus, toasted almonds, and crumbled feta. Drizzle with extra olive oil, lemon juice, and sprinkle with zest. Toss gently to combine.
Step 5: Season and Garnish
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Finish with a generous sprinkle of fresh herbs like dill or parsley. Serve warm or chilled, depending on your preference.
Serving and Storing Orzo with Asparagus & Feta
This dish can be served warm as a comforting main course or chilled as a refreshing pasta salad. It’s great for potlucks, picnics, or as a side dish alongside grilled meats or seafood.
To store, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen over time, making it even tastier the next day. If serving cold, give it a quick toss with a little olive oil and lemon juice before enjoying.
What to Serve With Orzo with Asparagus & Feta?
Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken
The citrus notes complement the lemony orzo perfectly.
Garlic Butter Shrimp
Rich and buttery shrimp add a luxurious touch to this light pasta dish.
Roasted Parmesan Green Beans
A crunchy, cheesy side that pairs well with the Mediterranean flavors.
Marinated Grilled Vegetables
Colorful peppers, zucchini, and eggplant balance the creamy feta.
Classic Caprese Salad
Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil add extra brightness.
Crispy Baked Parmesan Garlic Fries
For a fun, casual pairing with a satisfying crunch.
Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries and Feta
A sweet and savory side that ties beautifully with the feta in the pasta.
Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders
Easy, crispy chicken that makes this a full meal.
Want More Pasta Salad Ideas?
If you enjoy this Orzo with Asparagus & Feta, you might also love these flavorful pasta creations:
• Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe – a comforting, rich pasta perfect for weeknights.
• Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe – creamy, savory, and irresistible.
• Smoky Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta – packed with bold garlic flavor and smoky undertones.
• Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan – a simple yet flavorful dinner idea.
• One-Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta – hearty and full of smoky goodness.
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And don’t forget to share your version with me! Did you add sun-dried tomatoes? Maybe swapped feta for goat cheese? I’d love to hear how you made it your own.
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Orzo with Asparagus & Feta
Equipment
- Large pot
- Skillet
- Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 250 g orzo pasta
- 250 g asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 100 g feta cheese, crumbled
- 40 g almonds, toasted
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 2 tbsp fresh dill or parsley, chopped
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the orzo until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and toss lightly with olive oil.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add asparagus and sauté for 4–5 minutes until crisp-tender. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- In a dry skillet, toast the almonds over medium heat for 2–3 minutes until golden.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked orzo, asparagus, toasted almonds, and crumbled feta. Drizzle with olive oil, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Toss to combine.
- Season with salt, pepper, and garnish with fresh herbs. Serve warm or chilled.