Shrimp Scampi Orzo: A Quick and Delicious Meal Ready in 30 Minutes
Short introduction
Shrimp Scampi Orzo is a delightful dish that combines tender shrimp and fluffy orzo pasta in a rich garlic butter sauce. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, offering gourmet flavors without the fuss. In just 30 minutes, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen.
Why you’ll love it
This Shrimp Scampi Orzo is not only delicious but also easy to prepare. The balance of flavors from the garlic, lemon, and fresh parsley elevates the dish, making it refreshing and satisfying. Additionally, it’s a one-pan meal, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal. It’s packed with protein from the shrimp and has the comforting texture of orzo, making it a family favorite!
Ingredients
To create this scrumptious Shrimp Scampi Orzo, you will need the following ingredients:
- 8 oz orzo pasta
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Substitutions & Key Variations
If you’re missing some ingredients or want to try variations, here are a few suggestions:
- Orzo Pasta: You can substitute orzo with other pasta shapes like fusilli or penne.
- Shrimp: Instead of shrimp, use scallops or even chicken for a different protein.
- Chicken Broth: Vegetable broth can work well for a vegetarian version.
- Herbs: If you don’t have parsley, try basil or cilantro for a fresh twist.
Step-by-step
Step 1: Cook the Orzo
Begin by cooking orzo according to the package instructions. Make sure to salt the water for added flavor. Once cooked, drain it and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
In a large pan, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Once melted and hot, add the minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Add the shrimp to the pan, cooking until they turn pink and opaque, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Step 4: Add Liquid Ingredients
Pour in the chicken broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest to the pan. Stir well to combine all the flavors and let it simmer for a couple of minutes.
Step 5: Combine with Orzo
Toss in the cooked orzo, gently mixing it with the shrimp and sauce. Make sure the orzo is well-coated with the delicious garlic and lemon mixture.
Step 6: Add Fresh Parsley and Season
Finally, stir in the chopped parsley and season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything to combine.
Step 7: Serve Warm
Serve your Shrimp Scampi Orzo warm, garnishing with extra parsley or a slice of lemon if desired.
Success Tips
- Temperature: Maintain medium heat for sautéing to prevent the garlic from burning.
- Texture: Be sure not to overcook the shrimp; they should be firm but tender to the bite.
- Common Mistakes: One common mistake is cooking the shrimp too long, which makes them rubbery. As soon as they turn pink, remove them from heat.
How to Serve
This dish can be served as a main course and pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread. For an added touch, you can sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it from drying out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make Shrimp Scampi Orzo ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the shrimp and sauce in advance. Just add the orzo just before serving to keep it fresh.
Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: Traditional orzo is not gluten-free, but you can find gluten-free orzo alternatives in most grocery stores.
Q: Can I freeze Shrimp Scampi Orzo?
A: It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it without the shrimp, cooking them fresh when you reheat the dish.
Q: What can I pair with this dish?
A: Shrimp Scampi Orzo pairs well with a side salad or steamed vegetables.
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A: Absolutely! Just thaw them before using for the best results.
Nutrition notes / equivalents
This hearty dish provides a balanced meal with proteins from shrimp and carbohydrates from the orzo. It’s excellent for fueling your day and satisfying your hunger.
Conclusion
Shrimp Scampi Orzo is a delightful and easy dish that you can whip up in no time. Bursting with flavor and color, this meal is sure to impress friends and family alike. Don’t hesitate to make it for your next dinner; they’ll be asking for seconds!
Ready to dive into this delicious Shrimp Scampi Orzo? Gather your ingredients and start cooking today!
Links to Related Recipes
- Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta
- One-Pan Garlic Butter Chicken and Asparagus
- Creamy Tuscan Chicken with Orzo
- Easy Shrimp Tacos with Lime Crema
Shrimp Scampi Orzo
Ingredients
Pasta and Seafood
- 8 oz orzo pasta
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
Cooking Essentials
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon juiced and zested
- ½ cup chicken broth
Garnish
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- to taste Salt and pepper
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook the orzo according to the package instructions. Make sure to salt the water for added flavor. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
- In a large pan, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Once melted and hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Cooking
- Add the shrimp to the pan, cooking until they turn pink and opaque, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest to the pan. Stir well and let it simmer for a couple of minutes.
- Toss in the cooked orzo, mixing it with the shrimp and sauce to coat well.
- Stir in the chopped parsley and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serving
- Serve the Shrimp Scampi Orzo warm, garnished with extra parsley or a slice of lemon if desired.