Description
Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is a delicious, quick meal featuring succulent shrimp, creamy orzo, and zesty lemon flavors. Ideal for busy weeknights and special occasions alike.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil divided
- 1 pound large shrimp peeled and deveined
- salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- 1/2 cup dry white wine sauvignon blanc or pinot grigio
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice about 1 lemon
- 1 lemon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
Instructions
- Cook the orzo according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Season the shrimp with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
- Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Carefully pour in the white wine and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Stir in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Add the cooked orzo, Parmesan cheese, butter, lemon juice, and lemon zest, stirring until the butter is melted and the mixture is creamy.
- Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss gently to combine. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until everything is heated through.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
Feel free to substitute shrimp with other seafood like scallops or crab meat.
For extra flavor, consider adding spinach or cherry tomatoes to the mix.
Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes based on your spice preference.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 200mg