Description
This creamy Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is a quick and flavorful one-pan meal featuring tender shrimp sautéed with garlic and red pepper flakes, tossed with al dente orzo pasta, Parmesan cheese, and a bright splash of lemon. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this dish combines savory, tangy, and slightly spicy notes for a satisfying Mediterranean-inspired plate.
Ingredients
Scale
Orzo and Main Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Flavorings and Sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves
Instructions
- Cook the orzo: Begin by cooking the orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to keep it ready for mixing.
- Heat the skillet: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat to prepare for cooking the shrimp.
- Cook the shrimp: Season the shrimp with salt and pepper. Add them to the skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the garlic and spices: Reduce the skillet heat to medium and add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
- Deglaze with wine: Pour in the white wine carefully and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly and concentrate the flavor.
- Add broth and bring to boil: Stir in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil, creating a flavorful base for the orzo.
- Combine orzo and cheese: Add the cooked orzo, Parmesan cheese, butter, lemon juice, and lemon zest to the skillet. Stir well until the butter melts and the sauce becomes creamy and coats the orzo evenly.
- Return the shrimp: Add the cooked shrimp back to the skillet and gently toss everything together. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until warmed through and flavors meld.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the dish before serving for a fresh, vibrant finish.
Notes
- For a spicier dish, increase the red pepper flakes to taste.
- Use low-sodium chicken broth if monitoring salt intake.
- Substitute white wine with additional chicken broth or grape juice for a non-alcoholic version.
- Ensure shrimp are fully thawed if frozen before cooking for even cooking.
- Parmesan cheese can be replaced with Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor.
