Description
A flavorful and vibrant Shrimp Orzo recipe combining tender shrimp, perfectly cooked orzo pasta, fresh cherry tomatoes, and a zesty lemon garlic sauce. This quick and easy skillet dish is perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Seafood
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Pasta & Grains
- 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
Liquids & Broths
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
Produce & Herbs
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Juice of 1 lemon
Oils & Vinegars
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Spices & Seasonings
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional
- Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Orzo: Begin by cooking the orzo according to package instructions in well-salted water. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, lemon zest, and crushed red pepper flakes. Cook for about 1 minute, or until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
- Cook the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turns pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set it aside.
- Simmer Broth and Wine: In the same skillet, pour in the white wine and broth. Let it simmer for a few minutes to reduce slightly and allow the flavors to meld.
- Add Tomatoes: Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and continue cooking for another 2 minutes.
- Combine Orzo and Shrimp: Return the cooked orzo and shrimp to the skillet. Toss everything together to combine evenly.
- Finish with Lemon and Herbs: Add the fresh lemon juice, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well to distribute all flavors.
- Heat Through: Cook for an additional 2 minutes to let all the flavors combine fully.
- Serve: Serve immediately, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese if desired for an extra touch of richness.
Notes
- Use peeled and deveined shrimp for ease and best texture.
- Orzo can be substituted with other small pasta shapes if desired.
- Dry white wine can be replaced with extra broth if preferred.
- Adjust crushed red pepper flakes to control the heat level.
- Grated Parmesan cheese is optional but adds a nice savory finish.
- This dish is best served fresh to enjoy the vibrant flavors and textures.
