A quick, comforting, and Mediterranean-inspired Shrimp and Orzo recipe that’s rich in flavor, creamy in texture, and perfect for any occasion.
Author:Zerina
Ingredients
Shrimp: 1 pound, peeled and deveined
Orzo Pasta: 1 cup
Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
Cherry Tomatoes: 1 cup, halved
Tomato Paste: 1 tablespoon
Chicken or Vegetable Broth: 2 cups
Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons
Red Pepper Flakes: ½ teaspoon
Fresh Parsley: ¼ cup, chopped
Salt and Black Pepper: to taste
Instructions
Preheat Your Equipment: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Drizzle in olive oil and let it shimmer.
Combine Ingredients: Add garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in tomato paste and cherry tomatoes. Cook until tomatoes soften and burst.
Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Add the orzo to the skillet and toast for 2 minutes. Pour in the broth and bring to a simmer. Stir occasionally and cook until orzo is al dente and liquid is mostly absorbed (about 8–10 minutes).
Assemble the Dish: Nestle the shrimp into the orzo mixture. Cover and cook for 3–4 minutes until shrimp is opaque and curled.
Cook to Perfection: Uncover, stir gently, and season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Let it cook uncovered for another minute to thicken slightly.
Finishing Touches: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and a final drizzle of olive oil or zest of lemon if desired.
Serve and Enjoy: Dish up into bowls while it’s still warm and steamy. Enjoy with crusty bread or a light salad.
Notes
Toast the orzo first to add a nutty flavor.
Don’t overcook the shrimp — they cook fast.
Add a swirl of butter at the end for extra richness.
Squeeze lemon juice right before serving for freshness.