Lemon Shrimp Scampi Orzo
This Lemon Shrimp Scampi Orzo is a fresh, zesty, and comforting one-pan pasta dish that’s perfect for nights when you want something special without spending hours in the kitchen.
Servings: 2 people
Calories: 314kcal
Ingredients
- 5.3 oz Raw Shrimps large or jumbo, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon Olive Oil
- 1 tablespoon Butter
- 2 cloves Garlic minced
- 1 Shallot or ½ red onion, minced
- 4.2 oz Orzo Pasta
- 2-3 tablespoon Soffritto optional
- ¼ cup Dry White Wine Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio
- 1 cup Vegetable Broth Low-Sodium
- ½ Lemon Juice & Zest
- ½ teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes optional
- Salt & Black Pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoon Fresh Parsley and Chives chopped
Instructions
- Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add garlic and red pepper flakes to the pan. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from the pan and set aside.
- Add the minced shallot and soffritto (if using), and cook 2-3 minutes until soft. Add a bit more oil if needed.
- Stir in the orzo and toast for 1–2 minutes. Pour in the wine and let it simmer for 1 minute to cook off the alcohol.
- Add broth and lemon zest, season with a pinch of salt and pepper, and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook uncovered for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Return the shrimp to the pan, pour in the lemon juice, and toss for 1–2 minutes until heated through. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley, chives, and extra lemon zest if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
- For creamier orzo, stir in a splash of broth or 1–2 tablespoons of cream just before serving.
- If the liquid evaporates before the orzo is fully cooked, add a little hot water or broth to finish cooking.
- Always use fresh lemon juice for the brightest flavor—bottled juice doesn’t give the same freshness.
Nutrition
Calories: 314kcal | Carbohydrates: 24g | Protein: 19g | Fat: 14g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 7g | Trans Fat: 0.2g | Cholesterol: 136mg | Sodium: 616mg | Potassium: 307mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 580IU | Vitamin C: 15mg | Calcium: 71mg | Iron: 2mg
