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Shrimp Orzo In Lemon Garlic Sauce

Shrimp Orzo In Lemon Garlic Sauce: Quick Zesty Comfort Dish

This Shrimp Orzo In Lemon Garlic Sauce is a quick and zesty comfort dish perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Shrimp
  • 1 pound Large Shrimp Can substitute with frozen shrimp (thawed) if fresh is unavailable.
For the Orzo
  • 1 cup Orzo Pasta Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version.
For the Sauce
  • 4 tablespoons Olive Oil Can substitute with avocado oil if desired.
  • 4 cloves Garlic (minced) Use garlic powder in a pinch, though fresh is preferred for flavor.
  • 1 whole Lemon (zest and juice) Lime juice can be used as an alternative.
  • 1 cup Chicken Broth Vegetable broth is a good substitute for a vegetarian option.
  • 1/2 cup White Wine (optional) Substitute with additional chicken broth if preferred.
  • 1 teaspoon Crushed Red Pepper Flakes Leave out for a milder dish.
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Black Pepper
For the Finish
  • 2 cups Baby Spinach Any leafy green, like kale or arugula, can work as a substitute.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese (freshly grated) Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a vegan option.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley Basil or cilantro can be used instead.
  • 1 whole Lemon Wedges For serving and extra lemony zing.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • large skillet
  • colander

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the Orzo: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions, about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Sauté the Shrimp: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp, cooking for about 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
  3. Sauté the Garlic: Lower the heat to medium-low and add the remaining olive oil. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  4. Create the Sauce: Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, chicken broth, and white wine. Increase heat to simmer, season with red pepper, salt, and pepper.
  5. Combine Pasta and Spinach: Add the cooked orzo and baby spinach to the skillet, stirring gently to coat. Cook for about 1 minute until spinach wilts.
  6. Return the Shrimp: Add cooked shrimp back to the skillet, tossing gently to coat and heat through for another minute.
  7. Serve and Garnish: Remove from heat, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and parsley, and serve with lemon wedges.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 11gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For best results, use fresh shrimp and avoid burning the garlic. Store leftovers properly to maintain freshness.

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