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Shrimp Orzo In Lemon Garlic Sauce

Savory Shrimp Orzo in Lemon Garlic Sauce for Quick Dinners

Discover the delightful Shrimp Orzo In Lemon Garlic Sauce, a quick and flavorful dish perfect for any dinner occasion.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the Main Dish
  • 1 pound Shrimp Sweet and tender, substitute with chicken or tofu if desired.
  • 1 cup Orzo Pasta Use gluten-free orzo for a gluten-free option.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Can substitute with butter for a richer taste.
  • 4 cloves Garlic Fresh garlic adds depth.
  • 1 whole Lemon Use for zest and juice; lime can be a substitute.
For the Sauce
  • 1 cup Chicken Broth Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
  • 1/2 cup White Wine Optional, substitute with more chicken broth if not used.
  • 1 teaspoon Crushed Red Pepper Flakes Adjust based on heat preference.
  • to taste Salt Adjust to personal preference.
  • to taste Black Pepper Adjust to personal preference.
For the Greens & Garnish
  • 2 cups Baby Spinach Kale can be used as an alternative.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Skip for a dairy-free option.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley Basil or cilantro can be used as substitutes.
  • 1 whole Lemon Wedges Serve on the side.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • colander
  • large skillet
  • Spatula

Method
 

Cooking Steps
  1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Once cooked, drain the orzo in a colander, shaking off excess water, and set it aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the shrimp, cooking for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
  3. Lower the skillet's heat to medium and add the remaining olive oil. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, stirring continuously to prevent burning.
  4. To the skillet with garlic, add the zest and juice of one lemon, along with the chicken broth and optional white wine. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 2-3 minutes.
  5. Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper to the sauce, adjusting to taste. Let it simmer for an additional minute.
  6. Stir in the cooked orzo and baby spinach into the skillet, ensuring the orzo is well-coated with the sauce. Cook for about 1 minute until the spinach wilts.
  7. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, tossing gently to coat them in the sauce. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley on top. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.

Nutrition

Serving: 1plateCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 200mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Enjoy this dish fresh for the best experience. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheat gently.

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