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shrimp orzo with lemon garlic sauce 2026 04 07 165427 683x1024 1

Shrimp Orzo with Lemon Garlic Sauce

A delightful dish combining shrimp and orzo in a bright lemon garlic sauce, perfect for quick weeknight meals or impressing guests.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Broth
  • 8 oz orzo pasta
  • 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
Shrimp
  • 1 lb shrimp, deveined and tails removed
Aromatics and Seasoning
  • 3 tbsp olive oil for sautéing
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 lemon juiced and zested fresh lemon for best flavor
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped for garnish and flavor
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Red pepper flakes (optional) to add spice if desired

Method
 

Cooking
  1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Add the shrimp to the skillet, season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using), and cook for 2-3 minutes or until they turn pink.
  4. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
  5. In the same skillet, add the orzo and broth, bring to a boil, and then reduce heat to a simmer. Cook according to package instructions until al dente.
  6. Once the orzo is cooked, stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and parsley.
  7. Add the shrimp back to the skillet and toss everything together.
  8. Serve warm, garnished with additional parsley and lemon slices if desired.

Notes

Make sure not to overcook the shrimp; they only need a few minutes to turn pink and tender. You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.