Shrimp Orzo In Lemon Garlic Sauce
Shrimp Orzo in Lemon Garlic Sauce is a light and flavorful dish that brings together tender shrimp, tiny orzo pasta, and a bright, zesty lemon garlic sauce. The sauce coats…
Tip: save now, cook later.Shrimp Orzo in Lemon Garlic Sauce is a light and flavorful dish that brings together tender shrimp, tiny orzo pasta, and a bright, zesty lemon garlic sauce. The sauce coats every bite with a fresh, tangy taste that’s balanced by the warmth of garlic and a splash of olive oil. It’s simple yet feels special enough for a weeknight dinner or a casual get-together.
I love making this recipe when I want something that’s quick but still impressive. The shrimp cooks in just a few minutes, and the orzo soaks up all that lovely lemony sauce, making every forkful really satisfying. Sometimes I add a little chopped parsley for color and freshness because it adds a nice touch and makes the dish look as good as it tastes.
One of my favorite ways to serve it is with a side of crusty bread to mop up any leftover sauce. It’s also great alongside a green salad or steamed veggies for a complete meal. This dish is perfect whenever I’m craving something bright and just a bit fancy without a lot of effort.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Fresh or frozen shrimp both work great here. I usually buy peeled and deveined to save time. If you can’t do shellfish, cooked chicken or firm tofu are good swaps.
Orzo: This tiny rice-shaped pasta soaks up sauce beautifully. If you don’t have orzo, small pastas like acini di pepe or even couscous can work.
Lemon: Fresh lemon juice and zest bring bright, fresh flavor. Bottled lemon juice won’t be as vibrant, so fresh is best. If you want more acidity, a splash of white wine vinegar is okay.
Garlic: Use fresh minced garlic for best aroma and flavor. Garlic powder is a quick substitute but milder in taste.
Broth: Chicken broth adds depth. You can replace it with vegetable or seafood broth to keep it lighter or vegetarian-friendly.
How Do I Cook the Shrimp & Orzo Perfectly Without Overcooking?
The shrimp cooks very quickly, so keeping an eye on them is key. Here’s how:
- Heat the pan until hot before adding shrimp for a quick sear.
- Cook shrimp about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and curl into a loose “C.” Avoid cooking them until tight or firm, which means they’re overdone.
- Remove shrimp before adding orzo to prevent overcooking while the pasta cooks.
For the orzo:
- Toast the orzo briefly in the pan so it picks up flavor and stays firm.
- Simmer with broth and lemon juice on low heat, covered, and check to prevent sticking.
- Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and a creamy texture.
These steps help you get tender shrimp and perfectly cooked orzo with a smooth, lemony sauce.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – big enough to cook shrimp and orzo together without crowding, and it helps with quick, even cooking.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – great for stirring the orzo gently without scratching your pan.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate broth, lemon juice, and seasoning measurements.
- Citrus zester or grater – makes it easy to get fresh lemon zest for bright flavor.
- Knife and cutting board – for mincing garlic and chopping parsley safely and quickly.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap shrimp for scallops or chunks of cooked chicken to change the protein but keep the sauce bright.
- Add chopped spinach or kale near the end of cooking for extra color and nutrients without changing the texture much.
- Stir in a spoonful of cream or grated Parmesan for a richer, slightly creamy sauce that still feels fresh.
- Include red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika for more heat and smoky depth if you like a little spice.
Shrimp Orzo in Lemon Garlic Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth (or seafood broth)
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This meal takes about 25 minutes from start to finish: 5 minutes to get everything ready, about 10 minutes cooking the shrimp and orzo, and a few extra minutes to finish and garnish. It’s quick to prepare and perfect for a weekday dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Shrimp:
Heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the shrimp with salt, pepper, paprika, and optional red pepper flakes. Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.
2. Sauté Garlic and Toast Orzo:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until you smell the fragrance, but be careful not to burn it. Add the orzo pasta and stir to coat it with the butter and oil. Toast the orzo for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently to keep it from sticking.
3. Simmer Orzo in Broth and Lemon Juice:
Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping the bottom of the pan to loosen any flavors. Bring this mixture to a boil. Then reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 8-10 minutes until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
4. Finish the Sauce and Combine:
Stir in the remaining tablespoon of butter and the lemon zest to enrich the sauce. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and gently toss everything together to warm the shrimp and blend the flavors.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Remove from heat and sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the dish. Serve warm with lemon wedges on the side for extra zing. Enjoy your bright, flavorful shrimp orzo!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the shrimp before cooking. Thaw them overnight in the fridge or place them in a sealed bag submerged in cold water for quicker thawing. Pat them dry to avoid excess moisture in the pan.
Can I Substitute the Broth?
Absolutely. Chicken broth adds great flavor, but you can use vegetable broth or seafood broth depending on your preference or dietary needs. Just use the same amount for best results.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if the orzo seems dry.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can cook the orzo and shrimp separately and combine them before serving. Store components in the fridge for up to 2 days and gently reheat together with a bit of broth or butter to refresh the sauce.
