Shrimp Orzo: A Flavorful and Easy One-Pot Meal

If you’re looking for a recipe that’s both elegant and easy to prepare, Shrimp Orzo is the perfect choice. This dish combines tender shrimp, creamy orzo pasta, and vibrant asparagus with a hint of lemon for a refreshing, zesty flavor. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or making a quick weeknight meal, Shrimp Orzo delivers a restaurant-quality experience without the fuss.

Why You’ll Love Shrimp Orzo

This one-pot meal is more than just delicious—it’s a complete package. Here’s why it’s worth trying:

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under an hour, making it ideal for busy nights.
• Balanced Nutrition: Packed with protein, whole grains, and fresh vegetables.
• Bursting with Flavor: Lemon, Parmesan, and fresh parsley elevate the taste.
• Minimal Cleanup: Cooked entirely in one skillet for easy cleanup.

Ingredients for Shrimp Orzo

Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients you’ll need to make this delightful dish:

For the Shrimp

Ingredient	Quantity
Large raw shrimp	1 ¼ lbs (31–35 count)
Ground black pepper	½ tsp
Kosher salt	¼ tsp

For the Orzo

Ingredient	Quantity
Extra-virgin olive oil	1 tbsp
Yellow onion (diced)	1 small
Garlic (minced)	3 cloves
Whole wheat orzo pasta	8 oz
Reduced-sodium chicken broth	2 ½ cups

For the Add-Ins and Toppings

Ingredient	Quantity
Asparagus (trimmed, 2-inch pieces)	1 lb
Lemon (zest and juice)	1 large (¼ cup juice)
Parmesan cheese (grated)	½ cup, divided
Fresh parsley (chopped)	2 tbsp, plus extra
Lemon wedges	For serving

Step-by-Step Instructions for Shrimp Orzo

1. Prepare the Shrimp

1. Place the peeled and deveined shrimp in a small bowl.
2. Sprinkle with ground black pepper and kosher salt, tossing to coat evenly. Set aside.

2. Cook the Aromatics and Orzo

1. Heat olive oil in a large oven-proof skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
4. Add the orzo to the skillet. Increase the heat to medium-high and cook, stirring frequently, until the orzo is lightly browned and smells toasty, about 2 minutes.

3. Simmer the Orzo

1. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
2. Use a wooden spoon to stir and scrape the bottom of the pan to loosen any stuck pasta.
3. Cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid, reduce the heat to low, and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Remove the lid, stir again, and scrape the bottom of the pan.

4. Add the Asparagus

1. Stir in the asparagus pieces.
2. Cover the skillet again and continue cooking until the pasta is tender but slightly firm (al dente), about 10 minutes. The mixture should appear slightly liquidy, which will help keep the dish creamy.

5. Incorporate Lemon and Cheese

1. Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, ¼ cup Parmesan, and chopped parsley.
2. Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet, ensuring they are evenly distributed over the pasta.

6. Bake the Shrimp Orzo

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup Parmesan cheese over the top of the dish.
3. Bake, uncovered, for 8–10 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink, firm, and opaque. Be careful not to overcook.

7. Serve and Garnish

1. Remove the skillet from the oven and sprinkle with additional parsley.
2. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of freshness.

Tips for Perfect Shrimp Orzo

1. Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh or properly thawed shrimp have the best flavor and texture.
2. Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: They should be pink and opaque but still tender.
3. Toast the Orzo: Lightly browning the orzo enhances its flavor and prevents it from clumping.
4. Adjust the Liquid: If the mixture looks dry during cooking, add a splash of broth or water.

Why Shrimp Orzo is the Ultimate One-Pot Meal

This dish combines all the elements of a balanced meal—protein, grains, and vegetables—into a single pot. The fresh, zesty lemon and creamy Parmesan bring everything together, making it feel indulgent yet light.

Creative Variations to Try

• Add More Veggies: Mix in spinach, cherry tomatoes, or peas for extra nutrients.
• Switch the Protein: Use chicken, scallops, or even tofu instead of shrimp.
• Go Dairy-Free: Substitute nutritional yeast for Parmesan to make it dairy-free.
• Make It Spicier: Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne for some heat.

FAQs About Shrimp Orzo

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, small pasta shapes like ditalini or pearl couscous can be used, but cooking times may vary.

2. Can I make Shrimp Orzo ahead of time?

This dish is best served fresh, but you can prepare the orzo and asparagus in advance. Add the shrimp just before baking.

3. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.

4. Can I freeze Shrimp Orzo?

Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the orzo and shrimp may change upon thawing.

5. What can I use instead of chicken broth?

Vegetable broth or seafood stock are great alternatives.

6. How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free orzo or rice to make the dish suitable for gluten-free diets.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Per Serving (Approx.)
Calories	~380 kcal
Protein	35 g
Carbohydrates	35 g
Fat	12 g
Fiber	4 g

Why You Should Make Shrimp Orzo Tonight

This recipe is the perfect blend of comfort and elegance. With its creamy texture, vibrant flavors, and quick preparation, Shrimp Orzo is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a cozy dinner, this one-pot wonder checks all the boxes.

Your Turn to Cook

Now that you have everything you need, it’s time to gather your ingredients and make Shrimp Orzo in your kitchen. The step-by-step process ensures success, even if you’re a beginner. So preheat your oven, grab your skillet, and get ready to impress your taste buds with this delicious meal.

Enjoy every bite! 🍤🍋

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