Description
Lemon Shrimp Orzo is a bright, fresh, and comforting dish that combines zesty lemon, succulent shrimp, and tender orzo pasta. Ready in under 30 minutes, it offers a perfect balance of creamy texture and tangy zest, making it ideal for quick weeknight dinners or special occasions. This healthy and versatile recipe is packed with protein, vibrant flavors, and a refreshing citrus punch that satisfies the palate and warms the soul.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp and Seasoning
- 12 oz medium-sized peeled and deveined shrimp
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Orzo and Sauce
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or Greek yogurt
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh Herbs and Garnish
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or dill
- Extra lemon zest (optional, for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp: Season the shrimp lightly with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and are just cooked through. Set aside while you prepare the orzo.
- Cook the Orzo: In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Pour in the orzo and stir for a minute to toast it lightly. Then add chicken broth, bring to a simmer, and cook until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, about 8-10 minutes.
- Add the Cream and Lemon: Lower the heat and stir in heavy cream (or Greek yogurt) along with freshly grated lemon zest and lemon juice. This creates the luscious, zesty sauce that makes this dish shine.
- Combine Shrimp and Herbs: Return the shrimp to the skillet, stirring gently to combine. Toss in chopped fresh parsley or dill for brightness and a burst of green color. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed with salt and pepper.
- Serve and Enjoy: Transfer the Lemon Shrimp Orzo to plates or bowls, adding a little extra lemon zest or fresh herbs on top for garnish. Serve warm and savor every bite!
Notes
- Don’t overcook shrimp; cook just until opaque to keep them juicy and tender.
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best bright flavor.
- Toast the orzo lightly before simmering to enhance its nutty flavor.
- Simmer gently after adding cream to prevent curdling.
- Add fresh herbs at the end to preserve their flavor and color.
- Variations include adding vegetables, spices, or swapping proteins and dairy to fit preferences.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 180mg
Keywords: Lemon Shrimp Orzo, quick dinner, creamy pasta, seafood, gluten-free, healthy meal, Mediterranean cuisine
