Looking for a restaurant-quality meal that’s easy enough for weeknights but impressive enough for guests? This Shrimp Orzo Recipe combines succulent shrimp, creamy orzo pasta, and bright Mediterranean flavors in one irresistible dish. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s the perfect balance of convenience and gourmet taste.
Shrimp isn’t just delicious—it’s also packed with lean protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential nutrients like selenium and vitamin B12. When paired with orzo, a versatile rice-shaped pasta that absorbs flavors beautifully, you get a meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious. The garlic, lemon, and fresh herbs in this recipe give it that signature Mediterranean flair that makes it truly special.
Table of Contents
Why This Shrimp Orzo Recipe Will Become Your New Go-To Meal
There are countless reasons to love this dish, but here are the top ones that keep people coming back to it:
- Lightning-Fast Prep & Cook Time – From fridge to table in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Minimal Cleanup – Cook everything in one pot (if you want) for easy dish duty.
- Restaurant-Quality Flavors – The combination of garlic, lemon, and fresh herbs creates a sophisticated taste without complicated techniques.
- Endlessly Customizable – Add your favorite veggies, adjust the spice level, or make it creamy—the possibilities are endless.
- Perfect for Any Occasion – Fancy enough for date night, simple enough for a quick family dinner.
Ingredients for the Best Shrimp Orzo
Using high-quality ingredients makes all the difference in this dish. Here’s what you’ll need:
Core Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) shrimp, peeled & deveined (fresh or thawed frozen)
- 1 cup (200g) orzo pasta (uncooked)
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (divided)
- 3 garlic cloves, finely minced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cups (480ml) low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- Zest and juice of 1 large lemon (about 3 tbsp juice)
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (plus more for garnish)
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor & Texture
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups baby spinach
- ¼ cup crumbled feta or grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp butter (for extra richness)
- 1 tsp dried oregano or basil (if fresh herbs aren’t available)
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Follow these simple steps for perfect shrimp orzo every time:
1. Prep All Ingredients
- Pat shrimp dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear.
- Season shrimp lightly with salt and pepper.
- Mince garlic, dice onion, chop parsley, and zest/juice the lemon.
2. Cook the Shrimp
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1-2 minutes per side until just pink and opaque.
- Remove shrimp immediately and set aside on a plate (they’ll finish cooking later).
3. Sauté Aromatics & Toast Orzo
- In the same pan, add remaining 1 tbsp olive oil.
- Sauté onion for 2-3 minutes until translucent.
- Add garlic and red pepper flakes, stirring for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in orzo and toast for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently (this enhances its nutty flavor).
4. Deglaze & Simmer
- Add broth, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle boil.
- Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is al dente and liquid is mostly absorbed.
5. Finish the Dish
- Stir in shrimp, lemon juice, and spinach (if using). Cook for 1-2 minutes until spinach wilts and shrimp are heated through.
- Remove from heat and stir in parsley, butter (optional), and cheese (if using).
- Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt, pepper, or lemon juice.
Pro Tips for the Best Results
- Don’t overcook the shrimp – They should be just opaque when removed from the pan to avoid rubberiness.
- Toast the orzo – This step adds depth of flavor and prevents mushiness.
- Use low-sodium broth – Since the liquid reduces, regular broth can make the dish too salty.
- Add broth gradually – If the orzo seems dry before fully cooked, add ¼ cup more broth or water.
- Garnish generously – A sprinkle of extra parsley, lemon zest, or cheese makes it pop.
Delicious Variations to Try
This recipe is incredibly adaptable—here are some tasty twists:
1. Creamy Shrimp Orzo
- Stir in ¼ cup heavy cream or Greek yogurt at the end for a luscious texture.
2. Lemon Garlic Shrimp Orzo
- Double the garlic and lemon zest for an extra-bright flavor.
3. Spicy Cajun Shrimp Orzo
- Toss shrimp with 1 tsp Cajun seasoning before cooking.
4. Mediterranean Veggie Orzo
- Skip the shrimp and add artichokes, olives, and sun-dried tomatoes.
5. Cheesy Shrimp Orzo Bake
- Top with mozzarella or Parmesan and broil until bubbly.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this dish with:
- Garlic bread or focaccia – Perfect for soaking up the sauce.
- Crisp green salad – A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness.
- Roasted vegetables – Asparagus, broccoli, or zucchini work well.
Storage & Reheating Tips
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Add a splash of broth or water and warm gently on the stove.
- Freezing: Not recommended (shrimp can become rubbery).
FAQs (People Also Ask)
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A: Yes! Thaw overnight in the fridge or under cold running water, then pat dry before cooking.
Q: Is orzo gluten-free?
A: Traditional orzo contains wheat, but gluten-free versions (made from rice or corn) are available.
Q: Can I substitute another pasta?
A: Yes! Small shells, ditalini, or risotto rice work, but adjust cooking times.
Q: How do I prevent mushy orzo?
A: Toast it first, use the right liquid ratio (2:1 broth to orzo), and avoid overcooking.
Final Thoughts
This Shrimp Orzo Recipe is a quick, elegant, and endlessly adaptable dish that delivers big flavors with minimal effort. Whether you’re cooking for one or hosting a dinner party, it’s sure to impress. Try it tonight and taste the magic of Mediterranean cooking at home!
For more creative ideas, check out this Lemon Pudding Cake Recipe.
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