If you are craving something bright, fresh, and utterly satisfying, this Shrimp Orzo with Lemon Garlic Sauce Recipe is going to be your new best friend in the kitchen. Imagine tender shrimp nestled in a bed of perfectly cooked orzo pasta, all drenched in a luscious, tangy lemon garlic sauce that’s both comforting and zesty. It’s the kind of dish that makes for a weeknight winner yet impressive enough for guests, combining simple ingredients into a symphony of flavor that feels like a warm, sunny hug on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the ingredient list intimidate you—each item is straightforward and plays a vital role in creating the vibrant flavors and delightful textures of this dish. From the fresh shrimp to the bright lemon zest, these essentials come together seamlessly to make a memorable meal.
- 1 pound orzo pasta: This small, rice-shaped pasta soaks up the sauce beautifully, adding a lovely chewy texture.
- 1.5 pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Quick-cooking and juicy, shrimp bring a tender seafood essence perfect for this recipe.
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil: Adds smooth richness and helps develop the garlic’s flavor.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: The heart of the sauce, garlic gives a fragrant punch that wakes up your taste buds.
- 1/2 cup dry white wine: Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio lend acidity and depth to the sauce.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Balances the tanginess with savory notes for a luscious sauce base.
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice: A burst of brightness that defines the dish’s signature zest.
- 2 tablespoons finely grated lemon zest: Intensifies lemon flavor with fresh citrus oils.
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional): Adds a creamy touch if you want to ramp up the richness.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce, giving it a savory umami boost.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Enriches the sauce and adds silky texture.
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped: Bright green and herbaceous, parsley finishes the dish with freshness.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): A little heat for those who like a kick.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing all flavors into balance.
How to Make Shrimp Orzo with Lemon Garlic Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Orzo
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the orzo pasta. Cook it according to the package directions until it’s al dente—this usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes. Once drained, toss the pasta with a tiny drizzle of olive oil to keep it from sticking. Setting the orzo aside like this ensures it’s ready to soak up your luscious lemon garlic sauce without turning gummy.
Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp
Pat your shrimp dry using paper towels; this step is crucial for a perfect sear. Season the shrimp generously with salt and pepper, and if you like, a sprinkle of garlic or onion powder adds another layer of flavor. Having well-seasoned shrimp makes every bite pop with deliciousness.
Step 3: Make the Lemon Garlic Sauce – Cook the Shrimp
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Arrange the shrimp in a single layer and cook them for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they turn a gorgeous pink and become opaque. Don’t overcrowd the pan to ensure even cooking and a lovely sear. Remove the shrimp to a plate and set aside, making room for the sauce in the skillet.
Step 4: Make the Lemon Garlic Sauce – Build the Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium and add the garlic to the skillet, cooking it for just 30 seconds until fragrant—this quick step lets the garlic release its savory aroma without burning. Pour in the white wine, using a wooden spoon to gently scrape the browned bits from the bottom of the pan; these bits pack a ton of flavor. Let the wine simmer for a couple of minutes to reduce slightly, concentrating the taste.
Step 5: Add Broth, Lemon Juice, and Simmer
Next, pour in the chicken broth and the freshly squeezed lemon juice. Bring this mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. At this stage, the sauce is developing its signature tangy yet savory base that pairs perfectly with the shrimp.
Step 6: Finish the Sauce
Stir in the finely grated lemon zest, Parmesan cheese, and butter until everything melts together into a smooth, velvety sauce. If you choose to use heavy cream, now’s the time to add it—this will give your sauce an indulgent richness that coats every strand of orzo and every bite of shrimp beautifully. Season with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and if you crave a little heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes to taste.
Step 7: Combine and Toss
Add the cooked orzo directly into the skillet with your dreamy lemon garlic sauce, tossing gently but thoroughly to make sure every morsel of orzo is coated. Return the cooked shrimp to the pan and toss gently again to incorporate them. Toss in the freshly chopped parsley to give the dish a burst of color and fresh herbal brightness — this simple addition elevates each plate from good to unforgettable.
Step 8: Serve Immediately
To enjoy your Shrimp Orzo with Lemon Garlic Sauce Recipe at its best, serve it right away. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkling of red pepper flakes if you like it spicy. Add a lemon wedge on the side for those who love an extra citrus punch. This dish is all about fresh flavors and textures coming together harmoniously—don’t wait to dive in!
How to Serve Shrimp Orzo with Lemon Garlic Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan and a pinch of red pepper flakes are all you need to finish this dish off perfectly. The cheese adds umami richness while the flakes introduce a gentle heat that cuts through the creaminess. A few fresh parsley leaves not only add a pop of green but also bring a lovely herbal note that complements the lemon beautifully.
Side Dishes
This dish stands wonderfully on its own, but if you want to round out the meal, crunchy steamed asparagus, roasted cherry tomatoes, or a simple crisp green salad dressed lightly with olive oil and lemon juice make superb companions. These lighter sides balance the richness of the sauce and bring seasonal freshness to the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the shrimp and orzo in shallow bowls with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a sprig of fresh herbs on top. A rustic wooden board with lemon wedges and crusty bread encourages guests to build their own perfect bite. Or try a colorful serving platter, sprinkling chopped parsley and lemon zest right before serving for a vibrant, inviting look.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and can stay fresh for up to 3 days. The flavors may even meld further overnight, making for a delicious next-day meal. Just be sure to cool the dish to room temperature before refrigerating.
Freezing
While the orzo and shrimp are best enjoyed fresh to maintain their texture, you can freeze the lemon garlic sauce separately in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When thawed gently, it can be reheated and combined with freshly cooked orzo and shrimp for an easy second helping.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm your leftovers in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if the sauce has thickened too much. Stir often to heat evenly and avoid drying out the shrimp or orzo. This gentle reheating preserves the delicate flavors and creamy texture that make the Shrimp Orzo with Lemon Garlic Sauce Recipe so delightful.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking to achieve the best sear and texture. Avoid overcrowding the pan to keep them tender and juicy.
Is there a substitute for white wine in the lemon garlic sauce?
If you prefer not to cook with wine, you can replace it with additional chicken broth and a splash of white wine vinegar or lemon juice to maintain the acidity and depth without compromising flavor.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Simply omit the Parmesan cheese, butter, and heavy cream, and use extra olive oil instead. You can add a nutritional yeast sprinkle for a cheesy note if you like, and the lemon garlic sauce will still shine brightly.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper when seasoning the sauce. Freshly chopped chili peppers can also be sautéed with the garlic for an extra kick.
What is the best way to store cooked orzo?
Once cooked and cooled, toss the orzo with a little olive oil to prevent sticking and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It reheats nicely but is best combined fresh with sauces to maintain texture.
Final Thoughts
This Shrimp Orzo with Lemon Garlic Sauce Recipe combines the best of bright, fresh flavors with comforting creaminess, making it an absolute winner for any occasion. It’s simple enough to whip up on a busy weeknight but elegant enough to share at your next dinner party. You owe it to yourself to give this recipe a try—the vibrant lemon, garlic, and perfectly cooked shrimp wrapped in tender orzo will not disappoint!
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Shrimp Orzo with Lemon Garlic Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Description
This Shrimp Orzo with Lemon Garlic Sauce is a bright, flavorful, and easy-to-make seafood pasta dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Tender shrimp are cooked in a zesty lemon garlic sauce with white wine, chicken broth, and Parmesan cheese, then combined with perfectly cooked orzo pasta for a creamy, comforting meal with a fresh, tangy twist.
Ingredients
Orzo Pasta
- 1 pound orzo pasta
Shrimp
- 1.5 pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: garlic powder and onion powder, to taste
Lemon Garlic Sauce
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons finely grated lemon zest
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional, for extra richness)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Orzo: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package directions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain well and toss with a little olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.
- Prepare the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt, pepper, and optionally garlic and onion powder for extra flavor.
- Cook the Shrimp: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Lemon Garlic Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the white wine and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Add Broth and Lemon: Stir in the chicken broth and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Finish the Sauce: Add the lemon zest, grated Parmesan cheese, and butter to the skillet. Stir until the butter is melted and the sauce is smooth. If using, stir in the heavy cream for added richness.
- Season the Sauce: Taste the sauce and season with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Combine Orzo and Sauce: Add the cooked orzo to the skillet with the lemon garlic sauce. Toss well to ensure the orzo is fully coated in the sauce.
- Add Shrimp and Parsley: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and gently toss everything together. Stir in the chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
- Serve: Serve the shrimp orzo immediately, garnished with extra grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired. Offer lemon wedges on the side for an additional citrus boost.
Notes
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best bright and tangy flavor.
- For a creamier dish, don’t skip the heavy cream, but you can omit it for a lighter version.
- If you don’t have white wine, you can substitute with additional chicken broth or a splash of white grape juice.
- Be careful not to overcook the shrimp to keep it tender and juicy.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
