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Easy • Seafood

Speedy Lemon Herb Orzo with Shrimp

A bright, zesty orzo dish with succulent shrimp and fresh herbs, perfect for a light and quick weeknight dinner in under 20 minutes.

Prep
5 min
Cook
15 min
Servings
2
Level
Easy
Speedy Lemon Herb Orzo with Shrimp

Need a vibrant and satisfying dinner in a flash? This Speedy Lemon Herb Orzo with Shrimp is your answer! It's incredibly fresh, packed with flavor, and comes together in less than 20 minutes. Tender shrimp and zesty orzo, brightened with lemon and fragrant herbs, will make this a staple in your weeknight rotation.

Ingredients

Yield: 2 servings

Main

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails on or off
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
  • Lemon wedges, for serving

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    Season the shrimp: Pat shrimp dry with paper towels. Toss with 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/8 teaspoon black pepper.

  2. Step 2

    Cook the orzo: In a medium saucepan, bring chicken or vegetable broth to a boil over medium-high heat. Add orzo and reduce heat to a simmer. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 8-10 minutes, or until orzo is al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed. You want it slightly saucy, not dry.

  3. Step 3

    Cook the shrimp: While orzo cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add seasoned shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1-2 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque. Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary. Remove cooked shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

  4. Step 4

    Finish the orzo: Remove the orzo from the heat. Stir in the fresh lemon juice, butter, chopped parsley, and chopped dill. Stir until the butter is melted and everything is well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

  5. Step 5

    Serve: Gently fold the cooked shrimp into the orzo. Serve immediately, garnished with extra fresh herbs and lemon wedges for squeezing. Enjoy your quick and delicious meal!

Tips

  • Use good quality broth for maximum flavor, or make your own for an even richer base.
  • Frozen shrimp works great here; just thaw completely and pat dry before seasoning.
  • Don't overcook the shrimp, as it can become tough. They cook very quickly!

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