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Garlic Butter Shrimp and Orzo

A delightful dish that combines succulent shrimp, aromatic garlic, and hearty orzo pasta in a luscious garlic butter sauce, perfect for weeknight meals or entertaining guests.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian, Seafood
Calories: 540
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined Fresh shrimp for best flavor and texture
  • 1 cup orzo Can substitute with small pasta shapes if needed
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced Use fresh garlic for best aroma
  • 3 tbsp butter Unsalted butter recommended
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cups chicken broth Use low-sodium if preferred
  • 1 lemon, juiced and zested
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped For garnish
  • 1 tsp salt Adjust to taste
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper Adjust to taste

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and sear for 1–2 minutes per side until they turn pink. Remove the shrimp and set them aside.
  3. Lower the heat to medium. Melt butter in the same skillet, then add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Stir in the orzo and toast it for 1–2 minutes until it turns lightly golden.
  5. Add chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
  6. Return the shrimp to the skillet. Add lemon juice and zest, cooking for an additional 1–2 minutes to heat through.
  7. Turn off the heat and stir in the chopped parsley. Serve warm with optional lemon wedges on the side.

Notes

Use fresh shrimp when possible; do not overcook the shrimp; taste and adjust seasonings as needed. For extra nutrition, consider adding spinach or peas.