This Shrimp Orzo in Lemon Garlic Sauce is a delightful and vibrant dish that combines succulent shrimp, tender orzo pasta, and a tangy, flavorful lemon garlic sauce. It’s the perfect meal for a busy weeknight or a special dinner, offering both comfort and sophistication in every bite.
Ingredients
1 lb (450g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 cup orzo pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon lemon zest
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1/4 cup white wine (optional)
1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon butter (optional)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
Cook the orzo according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the lemon zest, lemon juice, white wine (if using), and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to reduce slightly.
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.
Add the cooked orzo to the skillet and toss everything together. If using butter, add it now and stir until it’s melted and fully incorporated.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Servings and Timing
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Storage/Reheating
I’ve found that this dish keeps well in the fridge for 1-2 days. To store, let it cool completely and then place it in an airtight container. When I’m ready to enjoy it again, I simply reheat it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out. If I want to refresh the flavors, I’ll also squeeze a little more lemon juice over it before serving.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp work perfectly for this dish! Just make sure to thaw them thoroughly before cooking. You can thaw them by placing them in the fridge overnight or running them under cold water for a quicker thaw.
Can I substitute orzo with another type of pasta?
Absolutely! While orzo gives this dish a nice, delicate texture, you can use any small pasta like ditalini, farfalle, or even penne if that’s what you have on hand.
Can I make this recipe without white wine?
Yes, the white wine is optional. I personally enjoy the depth it adds to the sauce, but if you prefer to skip it, you can simply use extra chicken or vegetable broth for a slightly different flavor profile.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Orzo pasta is made from wheat, so it’s not gluten-free. However, you can substitute it with a gluten-free pasta to make the dish suitable for a gluten-free diet.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
If I’m in the mood for a little heat, I love adding a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking the garlic. You can also toss in some freshly chopped chili peppers for an extra kick.
Conclusion
This Shrimp Orzo in Lemon Garlic Sauce is one of those recipes that never fails to impress. It’s quick, flavorful, and so satisfying. The combination of tender shrimp, the fresh, zesty lemon sauce, and the comforting orzo pasta makes for a dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether I’m cooking for my family or hosting a dinner party, I know this recipe will always be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy it with a simple salad or some crusty bread, and you’re set for a delicious meal.
Recipe:
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Irresistible Shrimp Orzo in Lemon Garlic Sauce
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A vibrant dish combining shrimp, orzo pasta, and a tangy lemon garlic sauce, perfect for weeknights or special dinners.
Ingredients
1 lb (450g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 cup orzo pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon lemon zest
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1/4 cup white wine (optional)
1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon butter (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the orzo according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the lemon zest, lemon juice, white wine (if using), and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to reduce slightly.
- Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.
- Add the cooked orzo to the skillet and toss everything together. If using butter, add it now and stir until it’s melted and fully incorporated.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
Frozen shrimp can be used; just ensure they are thawed before cooking.
Orzo can be substituted with any small pasta like ditalini, farfalle, or penne.
If you prefer to skip the white wine, use extra chicken or vegetable broth.
For a gluten-free option, substitute orzo with gluten-free pasta.
For added spice, you can include red pepper flakes or chopped chili peppers when cooking the garlic.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 180mg
