Shrimp Orzo with Lemon Garlic Sauce – Light, Flavorful, and Zesty

Shrimp Orzo with Lemon Garlic Sauce is the perfect combination of tender shrimp, perfectly cooked orzo pasta, and a vibrant lemon garlic sauce that’s fresh, zesty, and absolutely delicious. This dish is light enough for a weeknight dinner yet flavorful enough to serve on special occasions. The succulent shrimp, paired with the smooth, slightly chewy orzo pasta, creates a perfect balance of textures, and the lemon garlic sauce brings everything together in a burst of refreshing citrusy goodness.

Quick, easy, and full of Mediterranean-inspired flavors, this dish will become a family favorite in no time.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy – Ready in about 30 minutes

• Bright and fresh – Light lemon garlic sauce with fresh herbs

• Packed with protein and flavor – Shrimp and orzo make a hearty yet light meal

• Customizable – Add vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini for more nutrition

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Ingredient Overview: What You’ll Need

Shrimp

Use peeled and deveined shrimp for ease. Shrimp cooks quickly and is packed with protein, making it a great option for a light, satisfying meal.

Orzo

Orzo is a small, rice-shaped pasta that cooks quickly and pairs well with shrimp. If you’re looking for a lower-carb version, you can substitute with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.

Garlic

Fresh garlic adds depth and fragrance to the sauce, making the dish irresistibly aromatic.

Lemon

Fresh lemon zest and juice create a bright, citrusy flavor that cuts through the richness of the shrimp and orzo. It’s essential for that refreshing finish.

Olive Oil

For sautéing the shrimp and creating the base of the sauce. Use extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.

White Wine (Optional)

A splash of dry white wine adds acidity and depth to the sauce. You can substitute it with chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version.

Chicken Broth

Used to help create the flavorful base for the sauce and to bring all the ingredients together.

Fresh Parsley

Adds a fresh, herby finish and a pop of color to the dish.

Parmesan Cheese (Optional)

For a salty, savory finish. Freshly grated parmesan will melt into the sauce and complement the dish’s flavor.

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How to Make Shrimp Orzo with Lemon Garlic Sauce (Step-by-Step)

1. Cook the Orzo

• Bring 4 cups of salted water to a boil.

• Add 1 cup orzo and cook according to package directions (about 8–10 minutes) until al dente.

• Drain and set aside, reserving 1 cup of pasta water.

2. Cook the Shrimp

• While the orzo cooks, heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

• Add 1 lb shrimp and sauté for 2–3 minutes per side, until they turn pink and opaque.

• Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

3. Make the Lemon Garlic Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add:

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• Sauté for 1–2 minutes, being careful not to burn the garlic.

• Deglaze the pan with ¼ cup white wine (or chicken broth) and cook for 1–2 minutes, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the skillet.

• Add 1 cup chicken broth, the juice of 1 lemon, and zest of 1 lemon.

• Let the sauce simmer for 3–4 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to reduce slightly.

4. Combine the Shrimp, Orzo, and Sauce

• Add the cooked shrimp back into the skillet.

• Add the cooked orzo to the skillet, tossing everything together gently.

• Add a little reserved pasta water if the sauce needs to be thinned.

5. Finish and Serve

• Stir in 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley and salt and pepper to taste.

• If you like, sprinkle freshly grated parmesan cheese on top before serving.

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Tips, Variations & Substitutions

Tips for the Best Flavor & Texture

• Don’t overcook the shrimp – They cook very quickly, so be sure to remove them from the pan as soon as they turn pink.

• Reserve pasta water – The starchy pasta water helps make the sauce silky and cling to the orzo.

• Use fresh lemon – For the brightest, most aromatic flavor, always use fresh lemon juice and zest.

Variations

• Vegetable Additions: Toss in some sautéed spinach, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes for extra nutrients and color.

• Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes to the garlic sauce for a touch of heat.

• Creamy Version: Stir in ¼ cup heavy cream or cream cheese to the sauce for a richer, creamier texture.

Substitutions

• Gluten-Free? Use gluten-free orzo or substitute with zucchini noodles or rice.

• No White Wine? Use chicken broth or vegetable broth instead.

• No Shrimp? You can use scallops, chicken breast, or salmon as a substitute.

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Serving Ideas & Occasions

This dish is perfect for:

• Weeknight dinners – Quick and flavorful, ideal for busy nights.

• Date nights – Elegant enough to impress, but easy enough to make in under 30 minutes.

• Dinner parties – Serve as a main dish for a crowd, or pair with a light salad for a complete meal.

• Meal prep – Make a batch and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Serve with:

• A side salad with lemon vinaigrette for extra freshness.

• Garlic bread or keto-friendly bread to soak up the sauce.

• A glass of white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay.

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Nutritional & Health Benefits

Estimated Nutrition (per serving, 4 servings total):

• Calories: 400–450

• Protein: 35–40g

• Fat: 20–25g

• Carbs: 35–40g (depending on pasta choice)

• Fiber: 3–4g (if using whole wheat or veggie pasta)

Health Highlights:

• Shrimp: High in protein and low in fat, offering key minerals like selenium and iodine.

• Lemon: Packed with vitamin C and antioxidants that support immune health.

• Garlic: Known for its anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.

• Olive Oil: A source of heart-healthy fats, promoting good cholesterol levels.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

This dish is best served fresh, but you can prepare the shrimp and garlic sauce ahead of time. Store the shrimp and sauce separately and combine them with the orzo when ready to serve.

2. Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.

3. Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes! Simply skip the parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

4. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any pasta you prefer, such as linguine, spaghetti, or fettuccine. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles.

5. What should I serve this with?

Serve with a side salad, steamed veggies, or garlic bread for a complete meal. You can also pair it with a light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc.

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