Description
Quick Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Spinach Orzo ready in 25 minutes with fresh Mediterranean flavors and easy one-pan cooking.
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, finely minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach, roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon sweet paprika
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the orzo according to package directions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1-2 minutes per side until pink and lightly golden.
4. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium.
5. Add butter to the skillet, then stir in garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
6. Add cooked orzo, lemon zest, lemon juice, and heavy cream if using. Toss to combine and coat evenly.
7. Add spinach and stir until just wilted, about 30 seconds.
8. Return shrimp to the skillet and gently mix in Parmesan cheese and parsley. Adjust seasoning as needed.
9. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan and lemon wedges if desired.
Notes
Do not overcook the shrimp or they will become rubbery.
Heavy cream adds richness but can be omitted for a lighter version.
Add spinach gradually to avoid overcrowding the pan.
Fresh lemon juice is key for bright flavor—avoid bottled if possible.
Great served with crusty bread or a light side salad.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 210mg