Description
This Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Spinach Orzo is a vibrant and flavorful dish featuring succulent sautéed shrimp, zesty lemon, and fresh spinach combined with tender orzo pasta. Finished with Parmesan cheese and a touch of butter, this quick and easy meal is perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Shrimp
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Seasonings and Flavorings
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, finely minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon sweet paprika
Vegetables and Add-ins
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach, roughly chopped
- ¼ cup fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped
Dairy
- ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup heavy cream (optional)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions
- Cook Orzo: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Prepare Shrimp: While the pasta is cooking, pat the shrimp dry thoroughly with paper towels. Season the shrimp with kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, and sweet paprika. This seasoning ensures a good sear during cooking.
- Sauté Shrimp: Heat the extra-virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer and cook without moving them for 1-2 minutes per side, until they turn pink and curl up, developing a golden sear. Remove the shrimp and set aside on a plate.
- Cook Garlic and Red Pepper: Reduce the skillet heat to medium. Add the unsalted butter, then the minced garlic and red pepper flakes if using. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant but avoid browning the garlic.
- Add Orzo and Lemon: Add the drained orzo to the skillet. Stir in the fresh lemon zest, lemon juice, and heavy cream if using. Toss and cook together for about 1 minute to combine and coat the pasta.
- Add Spinach: Gradually add the chopped baby spinach while stirring, allowing it to wilt gently. This should take about 30 seconds to prevent overwhelming the pan.
- Combine Shrimp and Finish: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet. Gently fold in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve: Serve the lemon garlic shrimp with spinach orzo immediately while hot. Offer extra Parmesan cheese and lemon wedges on the side for added flavor.
Notes
- For a lighter version, omit the heavy cream or substitute with a low-fat cream alternative.
- Make sure to pat shrimp dry to get a perfect sear instead of steaming.
- You can use frozen shrimp if fresh is unavailable; just thaw and dry well before cooking.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to control the heat level based on your preference.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated gently on the stove.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Keywords: lemon garlic shrimp, spinach orzo, quick shrimp recipe, easy seafood dinner, Mediterranean pasta
