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Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Spinach Orzo Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 58 reviews

Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Spinach Orzo is a vibrant and flavorful dish combining tender, seared shrimp with al dente orzo pasta, fresh baby spinach, and a zesty lemon garlic sauce. This easy skillet recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, offering a balance of protein, greens, and comforting pasta with a touch of creamy Parmesan and butter.

Ingredients

Scale

Orzo and Pasta Ingredients

  • 1 cup orzo pasta

Shrimp and Seasonings

  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon sweet paprika

Sauce 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)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • ¼ cup heavy cream (optional)

Vegetables and Garnishes

  • 2 cups fresh baby spinach, roughly chopped
  • ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • ¼ cup fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Cook the Orzo: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the orzo according to package directions until al dente, usually 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. Prepare the Shrimp: While the pasta cooks, pat the shrimp completely dry with paper towels. Season them evenly with kosher salt, black pepper, and sweet paprika to ensure they develop a nice sear instead of steaming.
  3. Sear the Shrimp: Heat extra-virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer and cook without moving for 1-2 minutes per side, until they turn pink and curl up with a golden color. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside on a plate.
  4. Sauté Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes: Reduce heat to medium. Add unsalted butter to the same skillet. Add finely minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using), sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
  5. Add Orzo and Flavorings: Add the cooked orzo to the skillet along with fresh lemon zest, lemon juice, and heavy cream if using. Toss everything together for about 1 minute to thoroughly coat the pasta with the sauce.
  6. Wilt the Spinach: Gradually add the chopped baby spinach to the skillet and stir until just wilted, about 30 seconds, to avoid crowding the pan.
  7. Combine Shrimp and Finish: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet. Gently fold in freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
  8. Serve: Serve immediately while hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and lemon wedges on the side for added brightness.

Notes

  • Patting shrimp dry and seasoning well before cooking ensures a good sear and prevents steaming.
  • Red pepper flakes are optional and can be adjusted or omitted based on heat preference.
  • Heavy cream is optional; it adds richness but can be left out for a lighter dish.
  • Fresh lemon zest and juice brighten the dish, so be sure to use fresh lemons for best flavor.
  • Serve with extra Parmesan and lemon wedges for customization at the table.

Keywords: lemon garlic shrimp, shrimp orzo, spinach orzo, quick shrimp recipe, stovetop shrimp, easy dinner recipe, Mediterranean shrimp pasta

Find it online: https://bitesizedbenny.com/lemon-garlic-shrimp-with-spinach-orzo-recipe/