Description
This Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is a delicious and creamy skillet dish combining tender orzo pasta, succulent shrimp, and a rich blend of Parmesan cheese, garlic, and fresh lemon. Perfectly quick to make in about 30 minutes, it’s an ideal weeknight dinner that’s both flavorful and satisfying.
Ingredients
Scale
Orzo Pasta
- 1 cup orzo pasta
Shrimp and Seasonings
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids and Dairy
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Fresh Flavorings
- 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 pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain thoroughly and set aside to prepare the rest of the dish.
- Heat the Oil: 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 peeled and deveined shrimp with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Add them to the hot skillet and cook for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side, until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
- Sauté 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 (if using) and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
- Deglaze with Wine: Carefully pour in the dry white wine, allowing it to simmer and reduce slightly for about 2 to 3 minutes to concentrate the flavor.
- Add Broth and Combine Ingredients: Stir in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Add the cooked orzo pasta back into the skillet along with the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, unsalted butter, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir continuously until the butter melts and the mixture becomes creamy and well combined.
- Reintroduce Shrimp: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and gently toss everything together. Cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes until the shrimp are heated through and flavors meld perfectly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately while warm and enjoy this flavorful Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp.
Notes
- For a spicier version, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, substitute the white wine with additional chicken broth or a splash of white grape juice.
- Make sure not to overcook the shrimp to keep them tender and juicy.
- Freshly grated Parmesan is recommended for better flavor and creaminess.
- This dish pairs well with a light green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
