Description

A cozy and indulgent dish featuring tender shrimp and creamy orzo, delicately flavored with garlic, lemon zest, and herbs. Perfect for a weeknight treat or entertaining guests.

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined (thawed if frozen)
2 cups orzo pasta
4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
1 onion, finely chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 cup chopped spinach (fresh or frozen)
Zest of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

Warm the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and oregano, cooking for another minute until aromatic.
Stir in the orzo, letting it toast lightly for 2 minutes while coated in the flavorful oil.
Pour in the broth and bring to a simmer. Cook the orzo for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it reaches al dente texture.
Mix in the cream, shrimp, spinach, and lemon zest. Season with salt and pepper. Continue cooking for 3-5 minutes, until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
Take off heat, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve immediately while warm and creamy.

Notes

If you enjoy a little heat, add red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic. Swap parsley with fresh basil or dill for a twist. To make ahead, reheat gently with a splash of broth to revive the creamy texture.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 plate
Calories: 450
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 700mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 30g
Cholesterol: 160mg

Keywords: shrimp, creamy orzo, quick dinner, seafood pasta, comfort food