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Shrimp Orzo In Lemon Garlic Sauce

Savory Shrimp Orzo in Lemon Garlic Sauce for Quick Dinners

Enjoy this Shrimp Orzo in Lemon Garlic Sauce, a quick and flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Pasta
Cuisine Mediterranean
Servings 4 servings
Calories 400 kcal

Equipment

  • large pot
  • large skillet
  • colander
  • Wooden spoon

Ingredients
  

For the Shrimp

  • 1 pound shrimp Juicy and sweet, optional: use frozen shrimp; just ensure they are thoroughly thawed.

For the Orzo

  • 1 cup orzo pasta Rice-shaped pasta that absorbs the sauce beautifully; substitution: opt for gluten-free pasta if needed.

For the Sauce

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil A fruity base that melds all the flavors.
  • 3 cloves garlic Adds aromatic depth; sauté until fragrant but be careful not to burn.
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest Brightens the dish, balancing richness with citrus acidity.
  • 0.5 cup lemon juice Freshly squeezed for best flavor.
  • 1 cup chicken broth Provides savory depth without overshadowing the lemon.
  • 0.5 cup white wine Optional; adds fruity tang; substitute with extra chicken broth to avoid alcohol.
  • 0.5 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes Introduces mild heat; adjust to your taste.
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt Essential seasoning to elevate flavor.
  • 0.5 teaspoon black pepper Essential seasoning to elevate flavor.

For the Vegetables

  • 2 cups baby spinach Adds nutrients and color; wilts beautifully into the warm sauce.

For the Finish

  • 0.5 cup parmesan cheese Adds nutty richness and slightly thickens the sauce.
  • 0.25 cup fresh parsley A fresh garnish that brightens up the final dish.
  • 2 pieces lemon wedges Served on the side for an extra burst of citrus brightness.

Instructions
 

Cooking Steps

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook for about 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  • In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for about 2–3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove and keep warm.
  • In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Lower the heat and sauté minced garlic for 1–2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
  • Add lemon zest, lemon juice, chicken broth, and optional white wine to the skillet. Scrape any browned bits and let it simmer for about 3–4 minutes.
  • Season the simmering sauce with crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Let it simmer for another minute or two.
  • Add the drained orzo and baby spinach to the skillet. Stir well to combine and let the spinach wilt into the sauce for 1–2 minutes.
  • Return the sautéed shrimp to the skillet and gently toss everything together. Ensure the shrimp is warmed through.
  • Remove from heat, sprinkle with grated parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side.

Notes

This dish is best enjoyed fresh for optimal taste. Customize spices and add more vegetables as desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 200mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 180mgIron: 2mg
Keyword comfort food, easy recipes, Lemon Garlic Sauce, quick dinners, Seafood, Shrimp Orzo
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