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Lemon Shrimp Orzo

Lemon Shrimp Orzo
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Lemon Shrimp Orzo is a quick, fresh, and delicious one-pot dinner combining tender shrimp, perfectly cooked orzo pasta, and vibrant lemon flavors. Ready in under 30 minutes, this bright and zesty dish is perfect for quick weeknight meals, offering balanced nutrition with protein-rich shrimp and fresh herbs, all with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb fresh or thawed shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 cup orzo pasta (use gluten-free orzo for gluten-free option)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (or garlic butter for variation)
  • 2 1/2 cups warm chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1/4 cup fresh herbs (parsley, basil, or choice of dill, thyme, cilantro), chopped
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Sauté the Shrimp – Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper. Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and just cooked through. Remove shrimp from pan and set aside to prevent overcooking.
  2. Step 2: Cook the Orzo – In the same skillet, add more olive oil if needed. Sauté the finely chopped garlic for about 30 seconds until aromatic. Stir in the orzo and toast lightly for 1-2 minutes. Pour in warm chicken or vegetable broth, bring to a simmer, cover and cook until orzo is tender and most liquid is absorbed, about 8-10 minutes.
  3. Step 3: Add Lemon and Combine – Once orzo is cooked, stir in fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and chopped fresh herbs. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and gently mix to combine all flavors. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
  4. Step 4: Serve and Enjoy – Serve Lemon Shrimp Orzo immediately, garnished with additional fresh herbs or lemon slices for a colorful and fresh finish.

Notes

  • Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best vibrant flavor.
  • Do not overcook the shrimp to avoid rubbery texture; remove as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
  • Lightly toast the orzo before adding broth to enhance its nutty flavor.
  • Use warm broth for even cooking and to prevent sticking.
  • Let the dish rest a few minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon shrimp orzo, quick dinner, one-pot meal, seafood pasta, gluten-free pasta, easy weeknight meal, fresh herbs, lemon recipes, healthy dinner

Find it online: https://dailydishez.com/lemon-shrimp-orzo/