Name: Lemon Garlic Shrimp Orzo Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 tablespoon butter; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup uncooked orzo; 2½ cups chicken broth (low-sodium) or vegetable broth; 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste); ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; Zest of 1 lemon; Juice of 1 lemon (about 3 tablespoons); ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated; 2 cups baby spinach; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 72 reviews

If you’re on the lookout for a dish that combines bright, zesty flavors with comforting creaminess, this Lemon Garlic Shrimp Orzo Recipe is an absolute game-changer. Imagine tender shrimp tossed with perfectly cooked orzo pasta, all embraced by a luscious sauce infused with garlic, fresh lemon, and Parmesan cheese. It’s quick, satisfying, and bursts with vibrant flavors that make every bite feel like a cheerful celebration. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or impressing friends, this recipe delivers a bright, fresh taste alongside a cozy texture that’s simply irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white marbled surface holds 13 small clear glass bowls arranged in neat rows. The largest bowl at the left contains raw peeled shrimp with a greyish-white color. To its right, a big bowl filled with fresh bright green spinach leaves stands out, and in front of it, a clear bowl of uncooked yellow orzo pasta creates a warm contrast. Surrounding these are smaller bowls with various ingredients: one with pale yellow melted butter, another with shredded white cheese, a tiny bowl with dark green chopped herbs, one with grated lemon peel, and others holding light yellow minced garlic, golden oil, finely minced onions, mixed green dried herbs, and a half cup of yellow lemon juice. Each bowl is clear to see through, placed on a white marbled surface with soft natural light reflecting gently from above, giving a fresh and clean look. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Lemon Garlic Shrimp Orzo Recipe relies on simple, fresh ingredients that each bring something special to the table. From the savory bite of garlic to the light tang of lemon zest, every element plays a crucial role in creating a balanced and flavorful meal.

Olive oil: Adds richness and helps sauté the aromatics to perfection.
Butter: Brings a silky texture and decadent flavor to the base.
Small onion (finely chopped): Offers a subtle sweetness and depth when cooked down.
Garlic cloves (minced): Infuses the dish with its signature aromatic punch.
Uncooked orzo: Provides that delightful, pasta-like base that absorbs all the lovely flavors.
Chicken broth (or vegetable broth): Keeps the orzo moist and adds savory undertones.
Large shrimp (peeled and deveined): The star protein, bringing tender, juicy bites.
Italian seasoning: Brings herbal notes that compliment both shrimp and orzo beautifully.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for perfect seasoning balance.
Lemon zest and juice: Injects vibrant brightness that lifts the entire dish.
Parmesan cheese (grated): Adds a creamy, savory finish with a touch of nuttiness.
Baby spinach: Brings freshness, color, and subtle earthiness.
Fresh parsley (chopped): Perfect for a fresh, herbal garnish that completes the presentation.

How to Make Lemon Garlic Shrimp Orzo Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Aromatics

Begin by warming olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the finely chopped onion and let it soften gently for about 3 to 4 minutes. Once the onions are translucent and slightly sweet, add the minced garlic and cook it for just 30 seconds to release its wonderful fragrance without burning it. This base sets a flavorful foundation you’ll appreciate in every bite.

Step 2: Toast the Orzo

Next, stir in the uncooked orzo pasta. Keep it moving in the pan for about a minute until it turns a light golden shade. This toasting step adds a subtle nuttiness to the orzo that elevates the whole dish’s flavor profile — such a small step but totally worth it!

Step 3: Simmer the Orzo

Pour in the chicken broth, then season with salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your taste. Bring the mixture up to a gentle boil, then immediately lower the heat and cover the pan. Let it cook for 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, while the orzo absorbs the broth and becomes perfectly tender. This technique infuses every grain with savory goodness.

Step 4: Add the Shrimp

Now it’s time to add the star of the show — the shrimp — along with the Italian seasoning. Give everything a quick stir, cover the skillet again, and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the shrimp turn lovely pink and curl into tender little crescents, while the orzo reaches the perfect, creamy texture.

Step 5: Finish with Lemon and Cheese

Here’s where the magic of the Lemon Garlic Shrimp Orzo Recipe truly shines. Stir in the fresh lemon zest and juice, Parmesan cheese, and the baby spinach. The heat will quickly wilt the spinach and melt the cheese, creating a creamy, luscious sauce that brightens and balances all the flavor layers. This finishing touch is what makes the dish simply unforgettable.

Step 6: Serve

Plate your creation and sprinkle it with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and herbaceous aroma. For an extra pop of citrus, a final squeeze of lemon juice is the perfect complement, enhancing the dish’s fresh and lively profile.

How to Serve Lemon Garlic Shrimp Orzo Recipe

A silver frying pan on a white marbled surface holds a creamy orzo pasta dish. The first layer is soft, pale yellow orzo grains mixed with small pieces of green spinach leaves scattered around. On top lay several large, plump, pink shrimp with slight orange shades, evenly spaced. Two thin, bright yellow lemon slices sit on the left side of the pan. A gold spoon with orzo and one shrimp is placed on the right side inside the pan, adding a reflective shine. A soft blue cloth is seen in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is a classic garnish that not only adds a beautiful green color but also a subtle herbal brightness that works wonderfully with the lemon and garlic flavors. For an extra special touch, consider thin lemon slices or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for gentle heat.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette or some crusty artisan bread to soak up every bit of that delicious sauce. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts would add a lovely crunchy contrast, balancing out the creamy, tender orzo.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your Lemon Garlic Shrimp Orzo Recipe in wide, shallow bowls to show off the vibrant colors and textures. For a party or family-style meal, consider a large platter with fresh lemon wedges and parsley scattered on top; this encourages guests to tailor each bite to their taste and adds a fun, interactive feel to dinner.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Lemon Garlic Shrimp Orzo Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool it to room temperature before sealing, to maintain the creamy texture and prevent the spinach from getting too wilted.

Freezing

Freezing this dish is not recommended because the texture of the shrimp and the fresh spinach can change significantly. The creaminess from the Parmesan and broth may also separate upon thawing, affecting the overall appeal.

Reheating

When reheating leftovers, do so gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. You might want to add a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce and keep the orzo creamy. Microwaving can work for a quick option but can make the shrimp chewy if overheated.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this Lemon Garlic Shrimp Orzo Recipe?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess water in the skillet, which could dilute the flavors and texture.

Is orzo similar to rice?

Orzo is a rice-shaped pasta, so while it resembles rice in shape, it cooks and tastes more like pasta, providing a nice chewy texture that’s perfect for this recipe.

Can I substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth?

Yes, vegetable broth works just as well and will keep the dish vegetarian-friendly if you’re using a non-meat protein. It still gives plenty of flavor to the orzo.

How do I make this recipe dairy-free?

You can skip the butter and Parmesan cheese and substitute with olive oil for richness and nutritional yeast for that cheesy flavor without dairy.

Can I prepare parts of this recipe ahead of time?

You can chop the onions, mince the garlic, and zest the lemon in advance to save time. However, it’s best to cook the shrimp fresh to enjoy their tender texture.

Final Thoughts

This Lemon Garlic Shrimp Orzo Recipe is a true delight that brings together fresh, bold flavors with comforting textures in less than 30 minutes. It’s one of those dishes that feels indulgent yet wholesome, perfect for sharing with family or friends around the table. I can’t recommend it enough—give it a try and watch it quickly become one of your favorite go-to meals.