Name: Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Spinach Orzo
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup orzo pasta; 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon lemon zest; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated; 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional for creamier texture); 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/2 teaspoon paprika

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If you’re craving a dish that’s both fresh and satisfying, this Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Spinach Orzo is the perfect recipe to try. It combines succulent shrimp with the creamy goodness of orzo pasta, all elevated by the vibrant zest of lemon and the richness of garlic. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this meal brings together delicious flavors and textures in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this dish because it’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. The shrimp is perfectly seasoned with lemon, garlic, and a touch of paprika, creating a zesty and savory combination. The orzo, coated in a creamy spinach mixture, adds a comforting and rich element to the dish. It’s also flexible: I can choose to make it a bit creamier by adding heavy cream, or keep it lighter with just the spinach and Parmesan. Plus, it’s a one-pan dish, which makes cleanup a breeze!

Ingredients

1 cup orzo pasta

1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined

2 tablespoons olive oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon lemon zest

2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

2 cups fresh spinach, chopped

1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

1/4 cup heavy cream (optional for creamier texture)

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

1/2 teaspoon paprika

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the orzo according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add the shrimp and season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook for 2 minutes per side until the shrimp turns pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set them aside.

In the same skillet, melt the butter and add the minced garlic. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Stir in the lemon zest, red pepper flakes (if using), and fresh lemon juice. Let this cook for another minute.

Add the chopped spinach and stir until it wilts, about 2-3 minutes.

Return the cooked orzo to the pan, mixing it well with the spinach and garlic mixture.

If desired, pour in the heavy cream and stir until a creamy texture forms.

Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and then add the cooked shrimp. Toss everything together and cook for another 2 minutes to warm everything through.

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4 servings

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

Make it spicy: Add more red pepper flakes to give the dish an extra kick.

Creamy texture: For a richer, creamier version, I can add more heavy cream or even a splash of milk to the orzo.

Swap the shrimp: If I’m not in the mood for shrimp, chicken breast or scallops would be great alternatives.

Vegan option: For a plant-based version, I can swap the shrimp with mushrooms or another favorite veggie and use a dairy-free cream and cheese.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: I can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Reheating: To reheat, I’ll add a little splash of water or broth in a pan and warm it over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the orzo from drying out. I can also microwave it in intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, I can definitely use frozen shrimp. Just be sure to thaw them completely before cooking.

Is the heavy cream necessary?

No, I can skip the heavy cream for a lighter version. The dish will still be delicious without it, thanks to the garlic and Parmesan.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

I prefer to make it fresh, but if I need to prep in advance, I can cook the orzo and shrimp ahead of time and store them separately. Then, I can quickly combine everything when I’m ready to serve.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any small pasta will work. I can substitute the orzo with something like farfalle, penne, or even spaghetti.

How can I make the dish gluten-free?

I can use gluten-free orzo pasta or any gluten-free pasta of my choice. Just be sure to check the ingredients if I’m using store-bought gluten-free options.

Conclusion

This Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Creamy Spinach Orzo is the perfect blend of fresh flavors, comfort, and ease. The creamy orzo, sautéed spinach, and perfectly cooked shrimp make for a satisfying meal that’s quick enough for a weeknight but elegant enough for a dinner party. It’s one of those dishes that’s sure to impress without requiring hours of preparation. Whether I’m cooking for myself or sharing with others, it’s a guaranteed hit.

Recipe:

Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Spinach Orzo

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Print Recipe

This Zesty Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Creamy Spinach Orzo is a flavorful, quick, and easy meal perfect for any occasion. Tender shrimp cooked in garlic and lemon, paired with a creamy spinach orzo, creates a delicious and comforting dish that will impress your taste buds. Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add shrimp and season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook for 2 minutes per side until the shrimp turns pink and opaque. Remove from skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, melt the butter and add minced garlic. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in lemon zest, red pepper flakes (if using), and fresh lemon juice. Cook for another minute.
Add chopped spinach and stir until it wilts, about 2-3 minutes.
Return the orzo to the skillet and mix well with the spinach and garlic mixture.
For a creamy texture, add heavy cream and stir until combined.
Stir in Parmesan cheese, then add the cooked shrimp. Toss everything together and cook for 2 more minutes to heat through.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.