Shrimp orzo in lemon garlic sauce is a delightful weeknight meal that’s both light and satisfying. The bright flavors of lemon and garlic meld beautifully with tender shrimp and creamy orzo. It comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy families looking for something cozy but delicious.

Why You Will Love This Shrimp Orzo In Lemon Garlic Sauce

This dish is a wonderful combination of flavors that everyone will enjoy. It’s easy to prepare, making it great for beginners and busy schedules. With just a few everyday ingredients, you can create a rich, comforting meal that feels special. It’s perfect for serving family or impressing friends on a casual dinner night.

How to Make Shrimp Orzo In Lemon Garlic Sauce

To prepare this dish, you’ll first cook the orzo in salted water until tender. While that’s cooking, you sauté the shrimp until they’re perfectly pink. The real magic happens when you mix everything with a zesty lemon garlic sauce that pulls the flavors together. It’s simple enough for anyone to follow, with just a few steps to create a warm, hearty meal.

What You Need

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 cup orzo pasta
3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
4 cloves garlic, minced
Zest and juice of 2 lemons
1 cup chicken broth
1/4 cup white wine (optional)
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 cups baby spinach
1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Lemon wedges for serving

Step-by-Step

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until pink and cooked through. Remove the shrimp and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the minced garlic for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
Add the lemon zest, lemon juice, chicken broth, and white wine (if using) to the skillet. Stir well and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
Bring the mixture to a simmer and season with crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper to taste.
Stir in the cooked orzo and baby spinach. Allow the spinach to wilt slightly.
Return the shrimp to the skillet and gently toss everything together until heated through.
Sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley.
Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of citrus flavor.

How to Serve Shrimp Orzo In Lemon Garlic Sauce

This dish is fantastic on its own, but you could serve it with a crisp side salad or some warm garlic bread for a more complete meal. Fresh lemon wedges enhance the flavor even further, and a light white wine pairs nicely if you’re looking to impress. It’s perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with friends.

How to Store Shrimp Orzo In Lemon Garlic Sauce

To keep leftovers fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you plan to store it longer, you can freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to a month. When ready to enjoy again, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove over low heat until warmed through.

Recipe Tips

Cook the orzo just until al dente so it doesn’t get mushy when combined with the sauce.
Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper based on your preferred spice level.
You can swap the shrimp for chicken or even tofu for a different protein.
Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the saltiness.
Fresh herbs like basil or dill can be used instead of parsley for a different flavor.

Variations & Swaps

Vegetarian Option: Replace shrimp with sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas for a filling vegetarian meal.
Pasta Swap: Use other pasta types like farfalle or penne instead of orzo for a fun twist.
Flavor Variations: Add diced tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor, or substitute limes for lemons for a different citrus note.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can cook the orzo and shrimp beforehand. Store them separately and combine everything just before serving to keep everything fresh.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Absolutely! Just make sure it’s in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove.

How can I reheat shrimp orzo?

Warm it gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist. Stir occasionally until heated through.

What if I don’t have white wine?

If you prefer to skip the wine, simply add extra chicken broth or a little more lemon juice to keep the flavor balanced.

Any tips on avoiding overcooked shrimp?

Keep an eye on the shrimp while cooking. They only need about 2-3 minutes on each side. Remove them from the heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque to avoid any rubbery texture.