Description
Bright, zesty, and perfectly creamy, this Lemon Garlic Shrimp Orzo is a one-skillet meal that combines juicy shrimp, garlic, lemon, and tender orzo pasta for a fast and flavorful weeknight dinner. Perfect for those looking for quick dinner ideas, easy recipes, or a protein-packed healthy meal, this dish comes together in 30 minutes and feels restaurant-quality. It’s a great choice for quick weeknight meals, easy seafood dinners, or when you’re just craving something fresh and comforting. This recipe is a top contender for your next easy dinner or meal prep plan.
Ingredients
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 cup orzo
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 lemon, zested and juiced
2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp butter
1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/4 cup grated Parmesan (optional)
Instructions
1. Season shrimp with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Sear in olive oil over medium-high heat for 1–2 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
2. Lower heat, add garlic to the skillet, and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Stir in the orzo and toast for 1–2 minutes with the garlic.
4. Add lemon juice and zest to deglaze the pan, scraping any bits from the bottom.
5. Pour in the broth, bring to a simmer, and cook uncovered for 8–10 minutes until orzo is tender.
6. Return shrimp to the skillet. Stir in butter and Parmesan (if using) until melted and creamy.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley, extra lemon wedges if desired, and serve hot.
Notes
Be sure not to overcook the shrimp—they only need a couple of minutes to become perfectly tender.
Stir the orzo occasionally as it simmers to prevent sticking.
Fresh lemon juice and zest make all the difference—avoid bottled juice for best results.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 180mg
Keywords: easy dinner, shrimp recipe, one pot meal, quick seafood, healthy dinner