Asparagus Orzotto

This is a tasty dish that comes together quickly.

If one were to substitute margarine and vegan cheese, this meal could qualify as plant based.

Serves 2; ready in ~30 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 Tbsp Extra-Virgin Olive Oil, divided
• 8 oz Asparagus, trimmed (~150g after trimming)
• 1 bunch green onions, chopped
• salt
• 113 g, Orzo
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 oz dry white wine
• 1 ½ tsp vegetable bullion
• Salt
• Black Pepper
• 1 cup peas, frozen
• 1 oz, Parmesan cheese
• 2 Tbsp butter
• 1 Tbsp Basil, dried

Procedure

1. Gather all ingredients. This comes together quickly!
2. In a large frying pan heat 1 Tbsp Oil then saute asparagus over high heat until crisp-tender with and lightly charred. About 5 minutes. Transfer to cutting board.
3. Wipe pan. Heat 1 Tbsp Oil. Saute chopped green onions until soft (~2 minutes).
4. Add Orzo and garlic. Stir frequently until lightly toasted. (~2 minutes)
5. Reduce heat to low. Add wine, stirring until absorbed, loosening any browned bits. (~2 minutes)
6. Add 1 ½ cup water, bullion, salt, and black pepper to taste. Cover and simmer for 12 to 15 minutes.
7. Meanwhile, cut asparagus into 1″ lengths.
8. When orzo is tender, stir in peas and butter loosening any orzo stuck to the pan. (~2 minutes)
9. Remove from heat. Stir in asparagus, basil, and Parmesan cheese.
10. Enjoy!