Shrimp Orzo Lemon Garlic Sauce Recipe

If you’re searching for a Mediterranean-inspired dinner that feels both luxurious and effortless, look no further than Shrimp Orzo Lemon Garlic Sauce. This vibrant dish brings together tender shrimp, perfectly cooked orzo, and a zesty, buttery lemon garlic sauce that’s both comforting and refreshing. Every bite is a harmonious blend of juicy seafood, bright citrus, and savory Parmesan—making it one of those crowd-pleasers you’ll want to add to your regular dinner rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Shrimp Orzo Lemon Garlic Sauce lies in its simple, fresh ingredients. Each component brings something special to the table—whether it’s color, flavor, or a touch of creaminess—ensuring the finished dish is so much more than the sum of its parts.

• Shrimp: Choose large, peeled, and deveined shrimp for juicy bites that soak up the sauce beautifully.
• Orzo Pasta: This rice-shaped pasta gives the dish a tender, pillowy texture that’s perfect for catching every drop of sauce.
• Olive Oil: A splash of good olive oil adds depth and helps the shrimp get that irresistible golden sear.
• Unsalted Butter: Butter brings a creamy richness and rounds out the citrusy notes.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is key for that signature punchy aroma and flavor.
• Lemon (zest and juice): Both zest and juice add layers of bright, tangy flavor that wake up the palate.
• Chicken Broth or Seafood Stock: Stock infuses the sauce with savory depth; choose seafood stock for extra oceanic flavor.
• Dry White Wine (optional): Wine brings gentle acidity and complexity; feel free to skip if you prefer.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Just a pinch brings a gentle heat that lifts the other flavors.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning every layer just right.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan melts into the sauce, adding savory, nutty notes and a touch of creaminess.
• Chopped Fresh Parsley: Parsley finishes the dish with a fresh, herby pop of color.
• Lemon Wedges: Serve on the side so everyone can add extra brightness to taste.

How to Make Shrimp Orzo Lemon Garlic Sauce

Step 1: Cook the Orzo

Start by bringing a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the orzo according to the package instructions until it’s perfectly al dente. Drain well and set aside. This step ensures the pasta is ready to soak up all the flavors once the sauce comes together.

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the shrimp generously with salt and black pepper, then place them in the hot pan. Sauté the shrimp for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, just until they turn pink and opaque. Transfer the cooked shrimp to a plate so they don’t overcook while you make the sauce.

Step 3: Build the Lemon Garlic Sauce

Reduce the heat to medium and add the butter to the same skillet. Once it’s melted and bubbling, stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Let them sizzle for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant—be careful not to let the garlic brown. Next, add the lemon zest, lemon juice, broth, and wine (if you’re using it), stirring well. Allow the sauce to simmer for 2 to 3 minutes so it reduces slightly and the flavors meld together.

Step 4: Combine Orzo, Parmesan, and Shrimp

Now, add the cooked orzo and grated Parmesan cheese right into the skillet, tossing to coat every grain in that luscious lemon garlic sauce. Return the shrimp and any juices from the plate to the pan, and toss everything gently together. Give it another 1 to 2 minutes so the Shrimp Orzo Lemon Garlic Sauce flavors fully mingle and the dish is heated through.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Take the skillet off the heat and scatter the chopped parsley over the top. Serve your creation warm, with plenty of lemon wedges on the side for a final zesty touch. Each serving will be bursting with the irresistible flavors of Shrimp Orzo Lemon Garlic Sauce.

How to Serve Shrimp Orzo Lemon Garlic Sauce

Garnishes

Fresh parsley and lemon wedges are classic choices, but you can also sprinkle a bit of extra Parmesan over the top for even more savory depth. A crack of fresh black pepper just before serving adds a subtle kick, and if you’re feeling fancy, a drizzle of good olive oil will make each bowl shine.

Side Dishes

This dish is hearty enough to shine on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or some roasted asparagus. Crusty bread is always a favorite for mopping up any leftover Shrimp Orzo Lemon Garlic Sauce from your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re entertaining, consider serving the Shrimp Orzo Lemon Garlic Sauce in shallow bowls with extra lemon wedges artfully arranged on the rim. For a fun twist, try spooning the orzo into roasted bell pepper halves or serving it family-style in a large, colorful platter for everyone to dig in.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Shrimp Orzo Lemon Garlic Sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors actually deepen a bit overnight, making tomorrow’s lunch something to look forward to!

Freezing

While orzo and shrimp are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers if needed. Place the cooled dish in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to a month. Just be aware the shrimp may be slightly less tender once thawed, but the sauce will still be delicious.

Reheating

To reheat, place the Shrimp Orzo Lemon Garlic Sauce in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce. Stir gently and heat until warmed through, being careful not to overcook the shrimp.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Absolutely! Just make sure the shrimp are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking to ensure they sear nicely and don’t water down the sauce.

What can I substitute for orzo?

If you don’t have orzo, small pasta shapes like ditalini or even couscous work well. Rice is another option for a gluten-free twist on Shrimp Orzo Lemon Garlic Sauce.

Is this dish spicy?

There’s just a little heat from the red pepper flakes, but you can adjust the amount to suit your tastes or even leave it out entirely if you prefer.

Can I make this without wine?

Yes, the wine is optional! If you’d rather not use it, simply replace it with more broth or a splash of water. The Shrimp Orzo Lemon Garlic Sauce will still be bright and flavorful.

How can I add more veggies?

Feel free to toss in baby spinach, halved cherry tomatoes, or even peas during the last minute of cooking for extra color and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something special about sharing a big bowl of Shrimp Orzo Lemon Garlic Sauce with family or friends. It’s easy enough for a busy weeknight, but impressive enough for guests. Give it a try—you’ll be amazed how quickly it becomes a go-to favorite!

Shrimp Orzo Lemon Garlic Sauce Recipe

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4.9 from 5 reviews

• Author: admin
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This Shrimp Orzo with Lemon Garlic Sauce is a vibrant and flavorful Mediterranean-inspired dish featuring tender shrimp sautéed in a zesty lemon garlic sauce, served over perfectly cooked orzo pasta. With a wonderful balance of citrus, garlic, and subtle heat from red pepper flakes, this quick and easy stovetop meal is perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.

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Ingredients

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Shrimp and Pasta

• 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 1 cup orzo pasta

Sauce and Seasonings

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• 1/2 cup chicken broth or seafood stock
• 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Finishing Touches

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

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Instructions

1. Cook the Orzo: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain well and set aside.
2. Sauté the Shrimp: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the shrimp with salt and black pepper. Cook the shrimp for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and transfer to a plate.
3. Prepare the Lemon Garlic Sauce: Lower the heat to medium and add the butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, chicken broth (or seafood stock), and white wine if using. Allow the sauce to simmer for 2 to 3 minutes to reduce slightly and develop flavors.
4. Combine Orzo and Sauce: Add the cooked orzo and grated Parmesan cheese into the skillet. Stir well to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
5. Return Shrimp and Finish Cooking: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss everything together gently. Cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes just to heat the shrimp through.
6. Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley, and serve warm with lemon wedges on the side to squeeze over the top as desired.

Notes

• For a lighter broth substitute, use vegetable broth instead of chicken or seafood stock.
• If preferred, omit the white wine to keep the recipe non-alcoholic without sacrificing flavor.
• Add baby spinach or halved cherry tomatoes during step 4 to introduce extra color and nutrition.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl
• Calories: 430
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 520mg
• Fat: 19g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 29g
• Cholesterol: 180mg