Description
Experience the vibrant flavors of Greece with this Greek Garlic Lemon Shrimp Orzo, a delightful dish that combines succulent shrimp, zesty lemon, and aromatic garlic with creamy orzo pasta. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound large shrimp (21–25 count per pound), peeled and deveined
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
Instructions
- First, make sure your shrimp are thawed, peeled, and thoroughly patted dry. Mince your garlic, zest your lemon, and have your fresh dill and parsley chopped.
- In a medium pot or deep skillet, bring your chicken or vegetable broth to a gentle simmer over medium-high heat. Add the orzo and cook according to package directions, usually 8-10 minutes, until it's al dente. Drain any excess liquid if necessary, but often, the orzo will absorb most of it. Set the cooked orzo aside.
- While the orzo cooks, heat a large skillet or non-stick pan over medium heat. Add 1-2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. Once shimmering, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Increase the heat slightly to medium-high. Add the prepared shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side, just until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the cooked shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Return the cooked orzo to the skillet with the garlic. Add the cooked shrimp, fresh lemon zest, and the juice from your lemon. Stir everything together gently to combine.
- Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the chopped fresh dill and parsley. If you're using feta cheese, crumble it in now and give it another gentle toss. Taste and adjust seasonings.
- Dish out your Greek Garlic Lemon Shrimp Orzo into bowls. For an extra flourish, you can garnish with a little more fresh dill, parsley, and a sprinkle of feta.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Greek
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 50 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 200 mg
Keywords: Don't overcook the shrimp! Fresh lemon zest and juice are crucial for flavor. Quality broth enhances the dish significantly. Fresh herbs should be added at the end for maximum flavor.