Easy Shrimp Orzo in Lemon Garlic Sauce

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Orzo Pasta: Orzo is a rice-shaped pasta that cooks quickly. If you don’t have orzo, you can use other small pasta types like couscous or ditalini, though cooking times may vary slightly.

Shrimp: Large shrimp work best for this dish, but you can opt for medium or even jumbo shrimp if that’s what you have. Frozen shrimp are great and can be thawed before use.

Olive Oil or Butter: I often use olive oil for its flavor, but butter adds a lovely richness. You can use half of each for a balanced taste, or even a dairy-free alternative if needed.

Garlic: Fresh garlic brings the best flavor, but garlic powder is a good substitute in a pinch. Use 1/8 teaspoon if you go that route.

Chicken Broth: Vegetable broth works well if you’re looking for a lighter option or need to keep it vegetarian. Homemade broth or store-bought are both great!

How Do I Cook the Orzo Perfectly?

Cooking orzo to perfection ensures a great texture in your dish. It’s important not to overcook it! Follow these tips for success:

• Start by tossing the orzo in the skillet for a couple of minutes to toast it lightly. This enhances the flavor.
• Then, add the broth and water. Keeping a close eye, bring the mixture to a boil before lowering the heat.
• Let it simmer uncovered and stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Cooking it for around 8-10 minutes will yield al dente orzo for a nice bite!

Trust your taste buds—if it feels mushy, it’s likely cooked too long!

Easy Shrimp Orzo in Lemon Garlic Sauce

Ingredients You’ll Need:

Base Components:

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined

Flavor Enhancers:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil or butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
• 1/2 cup water
• Juice and zest of 1 lemon
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This dish takes about 20 minutes to prepare and cook. In just a little time, you’ll have a deliciously zesty and vibrant meal ready to enjoy!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Sautéing the Aromatics:

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter over medium heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if you like a little spice). Sauté for about 1 minute until your kitchen starts to smell amazing, being sure not to let the garlic brown.

2. Cooking the Shrimp:

Now it’s time to add the shrimp. Season them with salt and pepper, and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside for later.

3. Toasting the Orzo:

In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter. Pour in the orzo pasta and gently toast it for 1-2 minutes, stirring often. This little step really enhances the flavor of the pasta!

4. Cooking the Orzo:

Add the chicken broth, water, lemon juice, and lemon zest into the skillet. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let the orzo cook uncovered, stirring occasionally until tender and most of the liquid is absorbed—this should take around 8-10 minutes.

5. Final Touches:

Once the orzo is cooked, return the shrimp to the skillet. Stir everything together and heat through for an additional 1-2 minutes. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking.

6. Serve and Enjoy:

Remove the skillet from the heat, garnish with the fresh parsley, and if you want to, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving. Dive into your flavorful shrimp orzo, and enjoy every bite!

Bon appétit! 🎉

FAQ for Easy Shrimp Orzo in Lemon Garlic Sauce

Can I Substitute Orzo with Another Pasta?

Absolutely! If you don’t have orzo, other small pasta shapes like ditalini, couscous, or even quinoa can be used. Just be mindful of the cooking times, as they may vary slightly.

What If I Can’t Find Fresh Shrimp?

Frozen shrimp works perfectly! Just make sure to thaw them in the fridge overnight or quickly in a sealed bag submerged in cold water before using. Pat them dry to avoid extra moisture in the dish.

How Should I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to help loosen the orzo and keep it from drying out.

Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the shrimp and replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth. You can add extra vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for more flavor and nutrition.