Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Orzo
Tender shrimp sauteed in a zesty lemon-garlic sauce served over buttery, tender orzo pasta with fresh herbs and cherry tomatoes. This dish is fresh, vibrant, and perfect for a quick Mediterranean-inspired dinner.
⏱️ Time Required
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
8 oz (225g) orzo pasta
1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
3 tbsp olive oil, divided
4 garlic cloves, minced
Zest and juice of 1 lemon
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Orzo
1. Cook orzo according to package instructions until al dente.
2. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
1. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add shrimp, season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
3. Cook shrimp 2–3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Remove shrimp and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
1. In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tbsp olive oil.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add cherry tomatoes and cook 2–3 minutes until they soften slightly.
Step 4: Combine
1. Add cooked orzo back to skillet.
2. Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, and chopped parsley.
3. Return shrimp to skillet and toss everything to combine and heat through.
Step 5: Serve
1. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Serve warm, garnished with extra parsley and lemon wedges.
Notes
Use fresh shrimp for best flavor, but frozen and thawed work well too.
Add spinach or arugula for extra greens.
Swap orzo with couscous or quinoa for variety.
Tips
Toast orzo in olive oil before boiling for a nuttier flavor.
Add crumbled feta cheese on top for a creamy finish.
Use a good quality olive oil for best taste.
❓ Questions & Answers
Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Yes, substitute orzo with gluten-free pasta or quinoa.
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A: Absolutely! Just thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently.
️ Nutritional Information
Calories ~380 kcal
Protein ~35 g
Fat ~14 g
Carbohydrates ~30 g
Fiber ~2 g
Sodium ~450 mg