Description
This vibrant Lemon Shrimp Orzo is a quick and flavorful dish featuring tender shrimp sautéed with garlic and tossed with lemon-infused orzo pasta. Brightened with fresh parsley and a touch of red pepper flakes, it’s a perfect light meal that comes together in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp and Seasoning
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Pasta and Sauce
- 1 cup orzo
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon, zest and juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Orzo: Preheat a large pot of salted water to boiling. Add the orzo and cook according to the package instructions (usually about 8-10 minutes) until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Sauté the Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Add shrimp to the skillet and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are cooked through. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Garlic: Using the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, stirring continuously to avoid burning.
- Combine Orzo and Lemon: To the skillet with garlic, add the cooked orzo, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Stir well to combine and cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the orzo to heat through.
- Finish the Dish: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss gently with the orzo mixture until everything is evenly combined and heated through.
- Serve: Plate the lemon shrimp orzo, garnish with fresh chopped parsley, and serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Be careful not to overcook the shrimp to keep them tender and juicy.
- You can substitute fresh lemon juice with bottled lemon juice in a pinch, but fresh is recommended for best flavor.
- For a creamier variation, add a splash of heavy cream or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan before serving.
- This dish pairs well with a light green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
