Lemony Shrimp and Orzo

Ingredients

• 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
• 1 bunch asparagus trimmed and cut into bite-size pieces
• 1/2 red bell pepper cut into strips
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 1/2 lbs. cooked large shrimp
• 2 tablespoons fresh garlic minced
• 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 3 tablespoons chopped fresh Italian parsley
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. 1
   Cook orzo according to package directions. During the last 2 minutes of cooking, add asparagus and red pepper.
2. 2
   Drain orzo and vegetables; transfer to a large bowl. Cover and keep warm.
3. 3
   Meanwhile, as the orzo cooks, melt butter and oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp to pan and sauté 2 minutes or until heated through.
4. 4
   Add garlic to pan and cook quickly, about 30 seconds, stirring constantly. Stir in lemon juice, parsley and pepper; cook 1 minute until lemon is incorporated.
5. 5
   Add shrimp mixture to the pasta and toss together before serving.