Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon

Shrimp Scampi Orzo Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.3 from 13 reviews

Shrimp Scampi Orzo is a quick and flavorful one-pan dinner that combines succulent shrimp in a garlicky lemon butter sauce with tender orzo pasta and fresh herbs. Ready in just 35 minutes, this dish is perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal that feels elegant yet easy to prepare.

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Shrimp Marinade

  • 1 lb. large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 2 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
  • 3/4 tsp. kosher salt
  • 1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper

Orzo and Sauce

  • 2 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
  • 4 Tbsp. butter, divided
  • 1/3 cup minced shallots
  • Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes
  • 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
  • 1/3 cup broth mixed with a splash of white vinegar
  • 1 cup dry orzo pasta
  • 2 3/4 cups water
  • 1/2 tsp. kosher salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Finishing Herbs and Garnish

  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 2 Tbsp. chopped fresh chives
  • Juice of 1 lemon (from the zested lemon)
  • Drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil for serving

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Shrimp: Place the shrimp in a bowl and toss with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, lemon zest, 2 thinly sliced garlic cloves, 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt, and 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper to infuse the shrimp with bright and savory flavors.
  2. Cook the Shrimp: Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once melted, add the marinated shrimp and cook until they turn opaque and just cooked through, about 3 minutes. Transfer the shrimp to a clean bowl to prevent overcooking.
  3. Sauté Aromatics: Add the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil and 2 tablespoons butter to the same pan. Stir in minced shallots, crushed red pepper flakes, and the remaining 3 cloves of sliced garlic. Sauté the mixture until fragrant and soft, about 3 minutes, building the flavorful base for the pasta.
  4. Toast the Orzo: Stir in the dry orzo pasta to the aromatic mixture and cook for 1 to 2 minutes, letting the orzo toast slightly to develop a deeper flavor.
  5. Deglaze and Simmer: Pour in the broth and white vinegar mixture, simmering for 2 minutes to reduce slightly and concentrate the flavors. Season with 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
  6. Cook the Orzo: Add 2 3/4 cups water to the pan and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed, approximately 12 minutes. Timing may vary with your stove’s simmer strength.
  7. Combine Shrimp and Herbs: Gently stir the cooked shrimp and half of the fresh chopped parsley and chives back into the pan, allowing the flavors to meld together warmly.
  8. Finish and Serve: Garnish the dish with a generous squeeze of fresh lemon juice, a drizzle of olive oil, the remaining fresh herbs, and a few more grinds of black pepper. Serve immediately for a bright, buttery, and herbaceous meal.

Notes

  • Make sure not to overcook the shrimp as they will continue to cook slightly when stirred back into the orzo.
  • If you don’t have white vinegar, lemon juice can be used as a substitute for acidity in the broth mixture.
  • For a spicier kick, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes to taste.
  • You can substitute chicken or vegetable broth according to dietary preference.
  • Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of richness, if desired.
  • Author: Maya
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Find it online: https://recipeteach.com/shrimp-scampi-orzo-recipe/