Orzo with Peppers and Asparagus
Photo: Annabelle Breakey; Styling:Randy Mon
AuthorMichele Wagner

Time: 30 minutes. This colorful recipe is a fresh twist on the classic pasta salad. Reader Michele Wagner, who gave us the recipe, suggests serving it with grilled salmon, but it’s a nice side for any grilled meat you choose.

How to Make It

Step 1
1

Cook orzo according to package directions. Drain, rinse, and transfer to a large serving bowl.

Step 2
2

Meanwhile, heat 2 tbsp. olive oil in a large frying pan over high heat. Add peppers, garlic, and asparagus and cook, stirring often, until vegetables are softened and starting to brown, about 3 minutes.

Step 3
3

Add warm pepper mixture to cooked orzo, then add herbs, cheese, remaining 2 tbsp. oil, the salt, and pepper, stirring well. Serve with more parmesan on the side.

Step 4
4

Note: Nutritional analysis is per serving.

Ingredients

 1 cup orzo pasta
 4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
 1/2 cup thinly sliced red bell pepper
 1/2 cup thinly sliced yellow bell pepper
 1/2 cup thinly sliced orange bell pepper
 2 tablespoons minced garlic
 1 pound asparagus, ends trimmed and cut in thirds
 1/4 cup mixed chopped fresh mint, basil, and flat-leaf parsley
  About 1/4 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Directions

Step 1
1

Cook orzo according to package directions. Drain, rinse, and transfer to a large serving bowl.

Step 2
2

Meanwhile, heat 2 tbsp. olive oil in a large frying pan over high heat. Add peppers, garlic, and asparagus and cook, stirring often, until vegetables are softened and starting to brown, about 3 minutes.

Step 3
3

Add warm pepper mixture to cooked orzo, then add herbs, cheese, remaining 2 tbsp. oil, the salt, and pepper, stirring well. Serve with more parmesan on the side.

Step 4
4

Note: Nutritional analysis is per serving.

Orzo with Peppers and Asparagus

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