Description
Lemon Garlic Shrimp Orzo is a vibrant, one-pan Italian-inspired dish that balances bright citrus, fragrant garlic, and tender shrimp with silky orzo and wilted spinach in a savory lemon broth. Perfect for a quick yet elegant dinner that feels like a Mediterranean escape.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
8 oz shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 lemon, zested and juiced
1 cup vegetable broth
1 cup orzo pasta
2 cups fresh spinach
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional) for garnish
1/4 cup nutritional yeast or additional Parmesan (optional)
1/2 teaspoon saffron threads (optional, for saffron variation)
Instructions
Heat olive oil and butter in a large pan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
Add minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring to avoid burning.
Increase heat to medium-high, add shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook until pink and just cooked through, about 3-4 minutes. Remove shrimp and set aside.
Add vegetable broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest to the pan. Stir, then add orzo. Cook, stirring occasionally, until orzo starts to soften and absorb the liquid, about 8-10 minutes.
Reduce heat to low and stir in fresh spinach until it wilts into the mixture, about 2-3 minutes.
Return shrimp to the pan and mix well. Stir in Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast) and saffron if using.
Season to taste with additional salt and pepper. Garnish with parsley before serving.
Notes
Use gluten-free orzo if required for dietary restrictions.
For added richness, mix in a splash of plant-based cream or coconut milk.
This dish can be served warm or at room temperature, making it great for lunch leftovers.
You can substitute shrimp with firm tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian version.