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Lemon Garlic Shrimp Orzo Recipe

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4 from 14 reviews

A bright and flavorful Lemon Garlic Shrimp Orzo recipe that combines succulent shrimp, tender orzo pasta, and fresh spinach in a creamy lemon and Parmesan sauce. This quick and easy stovetop dish is perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner with a zesty twist.

Ingredients

Base Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

Pasta & Broth

  • 1 cup uncooked orzo
  • 2½ cups chicken broth (low-sodium, or vegetable broth)

Seafood & Seasoning

  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Lemon & Cheese

  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • Juice of 1 lemon (about 3 tablespoons)
  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated

Greens & Garnish

  • 2 cups baby spinach
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Cook the aromatics: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release its aroma.
  2. Toast the orzo: Add the uncooked orzo to the skillet and stir constantly for about 1 minute until the orzo turns lightly golden, enhancing its nutty flavor.
  3. Simmer the orzo: Pour in 2½ cups of low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth. Season with ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and let it cook for 8 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
  4. Add the shrimp: Stir in the peeled and deveined shrimp along with 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning. Cover again and cook for an additional 3 to 4 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and the orzo is tender.
  5. Finish with lemon and cheese: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, grated Parmesan cheese, and baby spinach. Mix thoroughly until the spinach wilts and the sauce becomes creamy and well combined.
  6. Serve: Plate the Lemon Garlic Shrimp Orzo and garnish with the chopped fresh parsley. Optionally, add an extra squeeze of lemon for a citrusy brightness before serving.

Notes

  • Use low-sodium broth to better control the salt content in the dish.
  • For a vegetarian version, substitute shrimp with sautéed mushrooms and use vegetable broth.
  • Make sure not to overcook the shrimp as they can become tough and rubbery.
  • Freshly grated Parmesan cheese yields the best creamy texture and flavor.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 2 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.

Find it online: https://cookedbygrace.com/lemon-garlic-shrimp-orzo-recipe/