Shrimp Orzo with Lemon Garlic Sauce Recipe

If you are looking for a bright, flavorful dish that feels like sunshine on a plate, then you’re going to adore this Shrimp Orzo with Lemon Garlic Sauce Recipe. It’s an irresistible combination of succulent shrimp and tender orzo pasta drenched in a zesty lemon garlic sauce that’s both comforting and sophisticated. Perfect for a family dinner or impressing guests, this dish blends fresh ingredients, vibrant herbs, and a touch of creaminess for a meal that’s bursting with freshness and warmth in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Shrimp Orzo with Lemon Garlic Sauce Recipe lies in its simple yet impactful ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in building those layers of flavor, texture, and color that make the dish so memorable.

• 1 pound orzo pasta: This tiny, rice-shaped pasta cooks quickly and soaks up the flavors beautifully.
• 1.5 pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Juicy and tender, shrimp are the star protein for this meal.
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil: Adds a rich, fruity base for the sauce and helps with sautéing.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the sauce with its signature aromatic punch.
• 1/2 cup dry white wine: Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio adds acidity and depth to the sauce.
• 1 cup chicken broth: Provides savory richness and helps create the luscious sauce.
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice: Brings a bright, tangy contrast that elevates the whole dish.
• 2 tablespoons lemon zest, finely grated: Intensifies the citrus flavor without extra liquid.
• 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional): For those who love it rich, this adds smoothness and indulgence.
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty flavor and helps thicken the sauce.
• 2 tablespoons butter: Gives the sauce a silky finish and balance.
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped: Offers a fresh herbal note and vibrant color.
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): A little kick for those who enjoy a touch of spice.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential seasonings to tie all flavors together perfectly.

How to Make Shrimp Orzo with Lemon Garlic Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Orzo

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the orzo. Cook it just until al dente, usually around 8 to 10 minutes—this means the pasta will be tender with a slight bite, ideal for absorbing the sauce without becoming mushy. Once done, drain well and toss the orzo with a drizzle of olive oil. This little trick prevents sticking and keeps your orzo perfectly separated for the final dish.

Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp

Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels—this will help them sear nicely without steaming. Season them generously with salt, pepper, and if you like, a sprinkle of garlic or onion powder for extra savory depth. This ensures every bite is packed with flavor.

Step 3: Make the Lemon Garlic Sauce

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in one single layer so they cook evenly. Sear them 2 to 3 minutes per side until they turn a gorgeous pink and are just opaque. Remove the shrimp and set them aside; don’t overcook them here, as they will finish cooking later. Reduce the heat to medium and add minced garlic, cooking for only about 30 seconds until its fragrance fills your kitchen—this is where the magic starts!

Step 4: Build the Sauce Base

Pour in the white wine and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any flavorful browned bits stuck to the pan. Simmer this mixture for 1 to 2 minutes until the wine has reduced slightly, concentrating its delicious taste.

Step 5: Add Broth and Lemon

Pour in the chicken broth and freshly squeezed lemon juice, then bring everything to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 2 to 3 minutes; this helps the flavors meld while the sauce thickens just a little.

Step 6: Finalize the Sauce

Stir in freshly grated lemon zest, Parmesan cheese, and butter, allowing everything to melt into a smooth, luscious sauce. If you want that extra creamy touch, add the heavy cream now and mix well. Season the sauce with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you desire a subtle heat.

Step 7: Combine and Serve

Add the cooked orzo directly into the skillet with the sauce, tossing to coat every tiny piece in the lemon garlic goodness. Gently fold in the shrimp and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for that final burst of color and freshness. Your Shrimp Orzo with Lemon Garlic Sauce Recipe is ready to bring joy straight to the table.

How to Serve Shrimp Orzo with Lemon Garlic Sauce Recipe

Garnishes

Top this dish with an extra grating of Parmesan and a few red pepper flakes if you want a hint of spice. A lemon wedge on the side not only adds a bright visual but also lets everyone customize the tanginess to their liking. These little touches take your presentation up a notch and enhance each bite.

Side Dishes

This vibrant shrimp and orzo combo pairs beautifully with crisp salads like arugula tossed in a simple vinaigrette or a roasted vegetable medley. A side of garlic bread or crusty baguette is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce, making sure not a drop goes to waste.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, serve the shrimp orzo in individual shallow bowls for a cozy, intimate feel. Garnishing with edible flowers or microgreens adds a gourmet flair. You could even layer the orzo and shrimp in a glass casserole dish for an appealing layered look that’s both rustic and elegant.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any remaining Shrimp Orzo with Lemon Garlic Sauce Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to develop overnight, but be sure to keep the shrimp separate if possible to prevent overcooking when reheating.

Freezing

This dish can be frozen, but for best texture, it’s better to freeze the orzo and sauce separately from the shrimp. Place them in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. Adding a splash of broth or water will help loosen the sauce and prevent drying out. If reheating from frozen, defrost completely first to preserve the shrimp’s tender texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking. This helps achieve the best sear and texture in your Shrimp Orzo with Lemon Garlic Sauce Recipe.

Is it okay to skip the heavy cream?

Yes! The heavy cream is optional and adds richness, but the sauce is still deliciously bright and flavorful without it. Feel free to omit for a lighter version.

What can I substitute for white wine?

If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute equal parts chicken broth with a splash of white wine vinegar or lemon juice to maintain the acidity and depth of flavor.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, simply use gluten-free orzo or a small pasta like rice-shaped quinoa pasta. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

How spicy is the recipe with the red pepper flakes?

The red pepper flakes add just a gentle warmth, not overwhelming heat. You can always leave them out or adjust the amount based on your spice preference.

Final Thoughts

This Shrimp Orzo with Lemon Garlic Sauce Recipe is everything you want on a weeknight or when hosting friends: simple, bright, and always satisfying. Its fresh flavors and creamy, garlicky sauce make it a true crowd-pleaser that you’ll want to pull out again and again. Give it a try and watch how it quickly becomes a beloved favorite at your table!

Shrimp Orzo with Lemon Garlic Sauce Recipe

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• Author: admin
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

This Shrimp Orzo with Lemon Garlic Sauce is a bright, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish perfect for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining. Juicy shrimp are cooked to perfection and combined with tender orzo pasta, all tossed in a zesty lemon garlic sauce enriched with Parmesan and a touch of cream for extra richness. Fresh parsley and a hint of red pepper flakes add freshness and a subtle kick, making this recipe both comforting and elegant.

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Ingredients

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Orzo and Shrimp

• 1 pound orzo pasta
• 1.5 pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined

Sauce and Seasonings

• 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 lemon zest, finely grated
• 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

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Instructions

1. Cook the Orzo: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo pasta 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.
2. Prepare the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and optional garlic or onion powder if desired.
3. Make the Lemon Garlic Sauce – Cook Shrimp: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
4. Cook Garlic and Deglaze: Reduce heat to medium. Add minced garlic to the same skillet and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Pour in white wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes to reduce slightly.
5. Add Broth and Lemon Juice: Stir in chicken broth and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
6. Finish the Sauce: Stir in lemon zest, grated Parmesan cheese, and butter until melted and smooth. If using, add heavy cream for extra richness and stir to combine.
7. Season the Sauce: Taste and season with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Combine Orzo and Sauce: Add the cooked orzo pasta to the skillet with the lemon garlic sauce. Toss well to coat the orzo evenly.
9. Add Shrimp and Parsley: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and gently toss with the orzo and sauce. Stir in chopped fresh parsley for brightness.
10. Serve: Serve the shrimp orzo immediately, garnished with extra grated Parmesan cheese, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired, and a lemon wedge on the side for extra zing.

Notes

• For a richer sauce, don’t skip the heavy cream, but it’s optional.
• Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best bright citrus flavor.
• Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they’ll become rubbery.
• If you prefer, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a lighter flavor.
• You can add a pinch of garlic or onion powder to season the shrimp for extra depth.
• Serve with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian