Description
This vibrant and flavorful Shrimp Orzo in Lemon Garlic Sauce recipe combines tender shrimp with perfectly cooked orzo pasta, all enveloped in a zesty lemon and garlic sauce. Enhanced with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, this dish comes together quickly for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any night of the week.
Ingredients
Scale
Orzo and Shrimp
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Sauce and Seasoning
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
Finishing Touches
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook Orzo: Cook the orzo pasta according to package directions until al dente; then drain and set aside to be added later.
- Sauté Garlic: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned to release its aroma.
- Cook Shrimp: Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until the shrimp turn pink and are opaque.
- Set Shrimp Aside: Remove the cooked shrimp from the skillet and set them aside to prevent overcooking.
- Simmer Sauce: In the same skillet, stir in chicken broth, lemon juice, lemon zest, and red pepper flakes. Bring this mixture to a simmer to meld the flavors together.
- Add Orzo to Sauce: Stir the cooked orzo into the simmering sauce, allowing it to absorb the lemony, garlicky flavors for about 2 minutes.
- Combine and Melt Cheese: Return the shrimp to the skillet with the orzo and sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Stir gently until the cheese melts and everything is well combined.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving to add a fresh herbal note and color contrast.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a lighter flavor or a vegetarian tweak (without shrimp).
- For extra heat, increase red pepper flakes to 1/2 teaspoon or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Make sure not to overcook the shrimp as they tend to become rubbery if cooked too long.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for best melting and flavor results.
- This dish pairs well with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
