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Lemon Garlic Shrimp Orzo

Lemon Garlic Shrimp Orzo: A Creamy 30-Minute Delight

This Lemon Garlic Shrimp Orzo combines creamy orzo, tender shrimp, and zesty lemon for a quick and flavorful dish.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 500

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 1 cup Orzo Can substitute with small pasta like ditalini or couscous.
For the Shrimp
  • 1 pound Shrimp Lean protein; can substitute with chicken or tofu.
For the Sauté
  • 2 tablespoons Butter Adds rich flavor; can substitute with olive oil.
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil For sautéing; avocado oil is a good alternative.
  • 4 cloves Garlic Fresh is best for flavor.
For the Sauce
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Creates a creamy sauce; can use half-and-half.
  • 1 each Lemon Juice and Zest Use fresh lemons for best flavor.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Freshly grated melts better.
For the Garnish
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley Can substitute with basil.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Skillet
  • colander
  • measuring cups
  • measuring spoons

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Lemon Garlic Shrimp Orzo
  1. Cook the orzo in a large pot of salted boiling water for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
  2. Pat the shrimp dry and season with salt and pepper. In a skillet, heat butter and olive oil, then sear shrimp for 2 minutes per side until pink.
  3. In the same skillet, add more olive oil if needed, reduce heat, and sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer, scraping the pan for flavor. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
  5. Stir in lemon zest and juice, and half the Parmesan. Simmer until it coats the back of a spoon.
  6. Add cooked orzo to the sauce, incorporating reserved pasta water until creamy. Add shrimp back in, heat through, and stir in remaining Parmesan and parsley.
  7. Serve hot, garnished with more Parmesan and parsley.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 200mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Ensure shrimp are dry before cooking for best sear. Use fresh ingredients for maximum flavor and avoid overcooking the shrimp.

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