Shrimp Orzo in Lemon Garlic Sauce is a bright, fresh dish that brings together tender shrimp with tiny, chewy orzo pasta all tossed in a zesty lemon and garlicky sauce. The flavors are light but full of personality, making it a perfect meal when you want something flavorful but not too heavy. The garlic gives it a nice kick, while the lemon adds a refreshing twist that keeps every bite lively.
I love making this when I want a dish that feels special but comes together quickly—it’s one of those meals that looks like you spent hours in the kitchen, but actually, it’s pretty simple. The orzo soaks up all the lemony sauce, and the shrimp stay juicy and just the right texture. It’s always a hit with friends and family, especially when served hot and fresh.
My favorite way to enjoy this dish is paired with a simple green salad on the side or some crusty bread to mop up any leftover sauce. I also like to sprinkle a bit of fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and extra flavor. This meal is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a casual dinner party, and I often find myself going back for seconds because it hits that perfect balance of comforting and refreshing.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Use fresh or thawed shrimp for the best texture and flavor. If you’re allergic or prefer no seafood, chicken breast cut into small pieces makes a good substitute.
Orzo: This small pasta cooks quickly and soaks up sauce well. If you can’t find orzo, substitute with small pasta like acini di pepe or fine couscous.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is essential here for that strong, fragrant kick. If fresh isn’t available, good-quality garlic powder can work, but add carefully since it’s more concentrated.
Lemon: Both lemon juice and zest brighten the dish, giving it a vibrant fresh flavor. If you don’t have fresh lemon, bottled lemon juice works but loses some brightness. Adding a pinch of lemon zest is always worth it.
Parmesan cheese: Adds saltiness and depth to the sauce. You can skip it for a dairy-free option or try a vegan Parmesan alternative.
How Do I Make Sure the Shrimp Stay Tender and Don’t Overcook?
Cooking shrimp is quick but timing is key. Shrimp go from perfect to rubbery in seconds. Here’s my method:
- Pat shrimp dry first; moisture on shrimp can cause steaming instead of searing.
- Heat the pan and oil before adding shrimp for a quick, even cook.
- Cook shrimp for about 2 minutes per side until they turn pink and curl slightly.
- Remove immediately from heat once cooked; carryover heat will finish them off.
Remember, shrimp cook fast so watch closely to avoid overcooking. This keeps them juicy and tender inside the lemon garlic sauce.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – great for cooking shrimp and making the lemon garlic sauce all in one pan.
- Medium saucepan – perfect for boiling the orzo without crowding the pasta.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – ideal for stirring the orzo and sauce without scratching your pan.
- Fine grater or microplane – helps zest the lemon finely for even flavor distribution.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to keep your ingredient amounts accurate for best taste.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap shrimp with scallops or diced chicken for a different protein but same great sauce.
- Add spinach or kale at the end for extra greens and color without overpowering the lemon flavor.
- Stir in sun-dried tomatoes to add a tangy, slightly sweet twist that pairs well with garlic.
- Use feta cheese instead of Parmesan for a tangier, creamier finish that complements the lemon.
Shrimp Orzo In Lemon Garlic Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- ½ cup water
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 lemon (about 2-3 tablespoons)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional for shrimp seasoning)
- Lemon wedges, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 20 to 25 minutes total. You’ll spend roughly 8 minutes cooking the orzo, about 5 minutes sautéing the shrimp, and another 5-7 minutes making the lemon garlic sauce and combining everything. Perfect for a quick and fresh dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Orzo
In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth and water to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook until tender but still with a slight bite (al dente), about 7 to 8 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Drain any extra liquid if needed and set the orzo aside.
2. Prepare and Cook the Shrimp
While the orzo cooks, pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel. Season with salt, black pepper, and paprika if you like a little extra flavor. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for about 2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Make the Lemon Garlic Sauce and Combine
In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned. Then add the cooked orzo, lemon zest, lemon juice, and Parmesan cheese. Stir everything to combine well, letting the flavors meld for 2 minutes. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and gently toss to mix everything together. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
4. Garnish and Serve
Turn off the heat. Sprinkle the fresh chopped parsley over the dish and garnish with lemon wedges on the side. Serve warm and enjoy your bright, flavorful shrimp orzo in lemon garlic sauce!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. Thaw them overnight in the fridge or quickly in cold water while sealed in a bag. Pat dry to avoid extra moisture in the pan.
Can I Make Shrimp Orzo Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the dish as directed, then cool and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to keep it moist.
What Can I Substitute for Parmesan Cheese?
You can swap Parmesan with pecorino Romano for a sharper taste or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free, vegan option. Just add a little at a time to achieve the desired flavor.
How Do I Prevent the Shrimp from Overcooking?
Keep a close eye while cooking shrimp—they only need about 2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove them from heat immediately to keep them tender and juicy.