Easy Shrimp Orzo in Lemon Garlic Sauce
Bright, garlicky, and ready in about 25 minutes, this shrimp orzo dish combines tender shrimp, nutty orzo, and a lemon-garlic pan sauce for a quick and impressive weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined (16–20 count recommended)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil Can substitute with butter.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced Fresh garlic is recommended.
- 1 lemon juiced and zested
- 1/2 cup vegetable or chicken broth Can use white wine for added flavor.
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped For garnish.
Instructions
Preparation
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside; reserve 2 tablespoons of the cooking water if you like a silkier sauce.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the olive oil and let it warm until shimmering.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté about 30–60 seconds just until fragrant—don’t let it brown.
Cooking
- Add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook until they turn pink and opaque, about 2–3 minutes per side depending on size. Remove shrimp to a plate once done to avoid overcooking.
- In the same skillet, stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and broth. Bring to a gentle simmer and scrape up any browned bits from the pan. Simmer 1–2 minutes to let flavors meld.
- Add the cooked orzo and the shrimp back to the skillet. Toss to combine, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce. Taste and season with salt and pepper.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
For added creaminess, stir in 1 tablespoon butter or 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan at the end. Can be served with a side salad or roasted vegetables.