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Shrimp Orzo in Lemon Garlic Sauce

Shrimp Orzo in Lemon Garlic Sauce: A Quick Flavorful Escape

Shrimp Orzo in Lemon Garlic Sauce offers a quick 25-minute meal with succulent shrimp, tender orzo, and a bright, zesty sauce.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 2 cups Orzo Provides a pasta base and delightful texture; substitute with any small pasta like couscous for variation.
For the Shrimp
  • 1 pound Shrimp Main protein source adding flavor and richness; use fresh, thawed shrimp or frozen shrimp (fully thawed) as alternatives.
For the Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Used for sautéing, adds richness; can replace with avocado oil for a different flavor profile.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Aromatic base flavor for the sauce; fresh minced garlic is recommended, but garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
  • 1 cup Chicken Broth Adds depth to the sauce; swap with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
  • 1 unit Lemon Juice Provides tanginess and brightness; freshly squeezed lemon juice is ideal for the best flavor.
  • 1 unit Lemon Zest Provides tanginess and brightness; freshly grated for best results.
For the Garnish
  • 2 tablespoons Parsley Offers a fresh, herbal finish; fresh parsley is preferred, but dried parsley can be substituted if necessary.
For Seasoning
  • to taste Salt Enhances overall flavor.
  • to taste Pepper Enhances overall flavor.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Skillet
  • Colander

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the orzo pasta and cook it for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it's al dente. Drain in a colander and set aside.
  2. In a wide skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. When the oil is shimmering, add 3 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Add 1 pound of shrimp to the skillet and season lightly with salt and pepper. Cook the shrimp for approximately 3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque.
  4. Once the shrimp are cooked, pour in 1 cup of chicken broth, along with the zest and juice of 1 lemon. Stir gently and let simmer for about 2 minutes.
  5. Carefully fold the drained orzo into the skillet, tossing gently to ensure the orzo is evenly coated with the lemon garlic sauce.
  6. Plate the dish and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve warm and enjoy!

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 25gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 1.5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 300mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For frozen storage, keep portions for up to 2 months.

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