Description: This Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Spinach Orzo is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines tender shrimp with a creamy, lemon-infused orzo. The addition of fresh spinach elevates the nutritional profile while adding a delightful pop of color and texture. It’s a quick, easy, and elegant meal perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual weekend gathering.
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
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- ¼ cup heavy cream (optional for creamier texture)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- ½ teaspoon paprika
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Orzo Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a vigorous boil. Adding salt to the water not only seasons the pasta but also helps it cook more evenly. Once boiling, add the orzo pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Al dente, meaning “to the tooth” in Italian, ensures that the pasta retains a slight firmness when bitten into, preventing it from becoming mushy. Once cooked, drain the orzo thoroughly and set it aside. A quick rinse with cold water can help stop the cooking process and prevent the orzo from sticking together, especially if it will sit for a few minutes before being added to the sauce.
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Olive oil is a great choice here as it adds a rich, fruity flavor that complements the seafood. Ensure the skillet is adequately heated before adding the shrimp, as this will help them sear properly and develop a nice color. Season the shrimp generously with salt, pepper, and paprika. Paprika not only adds a touch of warmth but also enhances the visual appeal of the dish. Cook the shrimp for approximately 2 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Overcooking shrimp can make them rubbery, so it’s essential to watch them closely. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the pan and set them aside.
Step 3: Create the Garlic Lemon Base In the same skillet that you cooked the shrimp in, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. The residual flavors from the shrimp will infuse into the butter, creating a more complex flavor profile. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this can result in a bitter taste. The garlic should be lightly golden and aromatic.
Step 4: Infuse with Lemon Stir in the lemon zest, red pepper flakes (if using), and fresh lemon juice into the skillet. The lemon zest adds a concentrated burst of citrus flavor, while the red pepper flakes provide a subtle kick of heat. Fresh lemon juice brightens the entire dish, adding acidity that balances the richness of the butter and oil. Cook for another minute, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 5: Add the Spinach Add the chopped fresh spinach to the skillet and stir until it wilts. Spinach cooks down significantly, so don’t be alarmed by the initial volume. Stir continuously to ensure the spinach cooks evenly and doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pan.
Step 6: Combine Orzo and Sauce Return the cooked orzo to the skillet and stir to combine it thoroughly with the spinach and garlic mixture. Ensure that the orzo is evenly coated with the sauce. If the mixture seems dry, add a splash of olive oil or a little pasta water to loosen it up.
Step 7: Creaminess (Optional) If desired, pour in the heavy cream and mix well to create a creamy consistency. Heavy cream adds a luxurious richness to the dish, but it can be omitted for a lighter version.
Step 8: Add Parmesan and Shrimp Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and toss in the cooked shrimp. The Parmesan cheese adds a salty, umami flavor that complements the lemon and garlic. Cook for another 2 minutes, just to warm everything through.
Step 9: Garnish and Serve Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately. Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a burst of freshness to the dish.
Why you will love this recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful: The combination of lemon, garlic, and Parmesan creates a vibrant and satisfying flavor profile.
- Nutritious: Packed with protein from the shrimp and vitamins from the spinach, this dish is both delicious and good for you.
- Versatile: You can easily customize this recipe by adding other vegetables or swapping out the shrimp for chicken or tofu.
- Elegant: Despite its simplicity, this dish looks and tastes sophisticated, making it suitable for both casual and more formal occasions.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve the Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Spinach Orzo as a main course. It pairs well with a simple side salad or some crusty bread for soaking up the delicious sauce. For a more substantial meal, consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli. A crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, complements the citrusy flavors of the dish.
Tips:
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery and lose their flavor. Cook them just until they turn pink and opaque.
- Use Fresh Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice provides a brighter and more intense flavor than bottled lemon juice.
- Adjust the Red Pepper Flakes: If you’re sensitive to spice, start with a smaller amount of red pepper flakes or omit them altogether.
- Add Other Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the dish, such as cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or zucchini.
- Make it Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free orzo pasta to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Make it Dairy-Free: Omit the Parmesan cheese and heavy cream (or substitute with a dairy-free alternative) to make this recipe dairy-free.
- Fresh Herbs: Add a variety of fresh herbs such as basil or oregano, alongside the parsley for extra flavor
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutritional Information: (Note: Nutritional information is approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.)
Calories: Approximately 415 kcal per serving Protein: Approximately 30g Sodium: Approximately 500mg
Conclusion
Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Spinach Orzo is a delightful and versatile dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Its simplicity, combined with its vibrant flavors and nutritional benefits, makes it an excellent choice for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress your guests, this recipe is a winner.
Questions and Answers about this recipe
Q1: Can I use frozen shrimp instead of fresh? A: Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Be sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Place the frozen shrimp in a colander and run cold water over them until they are thawed. Pat them dry with paper towels before adding them to the skillet. This helps to ensure they sear properly and don’t steam.
Q2: What can I substitute for orzo pasta? A: If you don’t have orzo pasta on hand, you can substitute it with other small pasta shapes like ditalini or acini di pepe. You can also use rice or quinoa for a gluten-free alternative. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q3: Can I make this recipe ahead of time? A: While this dish is best served immediately, you can prepare some of the components ahead of time. For example, you can cook the orzo pasta and sauté the shrimp in advance, then combine everything when you’re ready to serve. Keep in mind that the orzo may absorb some of the sauce as it sits, so you may need to add a little extra liquid when reheating.
Q4: How can I make this recipe spicier? A: If you like a bit of heat, you can increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the skillet. You can also use a spicier type of sausage or add a dash of hot sauce to the finished dish.
Q5: What’s the best way to store leftovers? A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to prevent the orzo from drying out. You can reheat the dish in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat.
