Zesty Lemon Garlic Shrimp Orzo
A delightful and comforting dish featuring succulent shrimp and tender orzo pasta in a zesty lemon garlic sauce, perfect for quick meals and special gatherings.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 oz shrimp, peeled and deveined Opt for wild-caught for better flavor.
- 1 cup orzo pasta Tiny rice-shaped pasta that's perfect for soaking up the sauce.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced Skip pre-minced for depth and richness.
- 1 lemon juiced and zested For that zesty, uplifting flavor.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth Or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream Use Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil Extra virgin for a vibrant taste.
- to taste salt and pepper To taste, of course!
- to taste fresh parsley, chopped For garnishing.
Instructions
Preparation
- Start by peeling and deveining the shrimp if necessary. Mince the garlic and chop the parsley.
Cooking
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp, seasoning with salt and pepper, and cook for about 2-3 minutes or until pink and opaque, then remove from the pan.
- In the same skillet, add the garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer, scraping any bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Reduce the heat to low, stir in the heavy cream, lemon juice, and zest, letting the mixture thicken slightly.
- Add the cooked orzo and shrimp back into the skillet, tossing well to coat. Let it cook for an additional minute to meld the flavors.
Serving
- Sprinkle fresh parsley over the top and serve immediately, letting the aromas envelop you.
Notes
For a healthier option, use whole wheat orzo or Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream. Seasonal vegetables like asparagus or diced tomatoes can add a twist. Enhancing with red pepper flakes or fresh herbs like basil can complement the flavors.