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As the spring season arrives, so does the craving for fresh, light dishes that celebrate the bounty of nature. One such dish that embodies this spirit is Zesty Lemony Orzo with Vibrant Spring Veggies. This delightful recipe not only tantalizes your taste buds but also brings a burst of color to your dining table. It’s an ideal dish for those looking to enjoy a delicious meal that is both nutritious and easy to prepare.

Lemony Orzo with Spring Vegetables

Discover the refreshing flavors of Zesty Lemony Orzo with Vibrant Spring Veggies, a perfect dish to celebrate the arrival of spring. This simple recipe features tender orzo pasta paired with colorful seasonal vegetables like asparagus and cherry tomatoes, all brightened by zesty lemon juice. Packed with nutrients yet easy to prepare, it's ideal for family meals or gatherings. Enjoy a delicious and nutritious dish that showcases the best of spring on your table.
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Ingredients
  

1 cup orzo pasta

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup asparagus, trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces

1 cup sugar snap peas, trimmed and halved

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 medium zucchini, diced

1 teaspoon lemon zest

1/4 cup fresh lemon juice

Salt and pepper to taste

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions
 

Cook the Orzo: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.

    Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, until fragrant.

      Add Vegetables: Add the asparagus pieces to the skillet and cook for about 2 minutes. Then, add the sugar snap peas, cherry tomatoes, and zucchini. Sauté everything for another 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender yet crisp.

        Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked orzo to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Pour in the reserved pasta water, lemon zest, and fresh lemon juice. Toss everything together gently to combine, ensuring the orzo is evenly coated with the lemony goodness.

          Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and if desired, grated Parmesan cheese for an extra touch of flavor. Serve warm and enjoy!

            Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 25 minutes | 4 servings