Lemon Garlic Shrimp Orzo – Light, Bright & Satisfying

When you’re craving something quick, flavorful, and fresh, this Lemon Garlic Shrimp Orzo hits all the right notes. Tender shrimp, toasted orzo pasta, and a bright lemony garlic sauce come together in a dish that feels both light and comforting. It’s Mediterranean-inspired, easy to whip up in under 30 minutes, and perfect for busy weeknights or elegant lunches.

The real charm of this recipe lies in its balance—zesty lemon, aromatic garlic, a touch of butter, and a hint of heat all wrap around perfectly cooked orzo and juicy shrimp. Pair it with a glass of white wine or a simple green salad, and you’ve got a meal that looks fancy but feels effortless.

 Ingredients:

• 1 cup orzo pasta
  
• 1 tbsp olive oil (plus more for shrimp)
  
• 1 lb (450g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
  
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
  
• Zest of 1 lemon
  
• Juice of 1 large lemon (about 3 tbsp)
  
• 2 tbsp butter
  
• 1½ cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
  
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  
• Salt & black pepper to taste
  
• 2 tbsp chopped parsley
  
• Optional: grated parmesan for serving

 Instructions:

1. Toast & Cook Orzo:

• In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat.
  
• Add orzo and toast for 2–3 minutes until lightly golden.
  
• Pour in broth, bring to a simmer, and cook uncovered for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and liquid is mostly absorbed.
  

2. Cook the Shrimp:

• While orzo cooks, season shrimp with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
  
• In a separate pan (or push orzo aside if using one skillet), heat a splash of olive oil.
  
• Cook shrimp for 2 minutes per side until pink and just cooked through. Remove and set aside.
  

3. Combine & Finish:

• Add garlic, lemon zest, and butter to the orzo. Stir for 1 minute until fragrant.
  
• Return shrimp to the pan. Add lemon juice and parsley. Toss everything to combine.
  
• Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
  

4. Serve:

• Plate warm with optional parmesan and extra lemon wedges.
  

 Tips & Variations:

• Add spinach or arugula for greens.
  
• Swap shrimp for scallops or grilled chicken.
  
• Use whole-wheat orzo for added fiber.
  

 Image Prompt:

A bright Mediterranean-style dish of orzo pasta tossed with juicy shrimp, flecks of lemon zest, fresh parsley, and garlic butter sauce. Served in a white shallow bowl, garnished with lemon wedges, and set on a light linen napkin with a rustic fork. Sunlight highlighting the shimmer of the sauce.

---

 Meta Title:

Lemon Garlic Shrimp Orzo – Easy, Light & Zesty Dinner

---

 Meta Description:

This Lemon Garlic Shrimp Orzo is a quick, zesty, and satisfying one-pan meal made with tender shrimp, toasted orzo, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs. Ready in 30 minutes!