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Creamy Garlic Shrimp Orzo

Creamy Garlic Shrimp Orzo: A Quick & Guilt-Free Comfort Meal

Enjoy a light yet flavorful Creamy Garlic Shrimp Orzo, perfect for quick weeknight dinners.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Shrimp
  • 1 pound Large Shrimp Thaw thoroughly if using frozen.
  • 1 teaspoon Baking Soda Enhances texture.
  • 1 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes Adjust for spice preference.
  • to taste Kosher Salt Essential for seasoning.
  • to taste Black Pepper Essential for seasoning.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil For marinating.
For the Orzo
  • 1 cup Orzo Pasta The base carbohydrate.
  • 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Adds richness.
  • 4 cloves Garlic Minced for flavor.
  • 3 cups Low-Sodium Chicken Stock Keeps the dish light.
For the Finishing Touches
  • 1 whole Lemon Zest and juice for brightness.
  • 1/2 cup Crumbled Feta For a tangy creaminess.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley Chopped for garnish.

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Mixing bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a bowl, combine large shrimp with baking soda, red pepper flakes, kosher salt, black pepper, and olive oil. Let marinate for about 10 minutes.
  2. In a large skillet, melt unsalted butter over medium heat. Add orzo pasta and stir for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
  3. Stir in freshly minced garlic into the toasted orzo, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Pour low-sodium chicken stock into the skillet and bring to a gentle boil. Cover and simmer for 10-12 minutes.
  5. In a separate pan, heat over medium-high and sear the marinated shrimp for 1-2 minutes on each side until opaque.
  6. Gently fold the seared shrimp into the cooked orzo along with lemon zest, juice, crumbled feta, and parsley. Adjust consistency with chicken stock if needed.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Ensure shrimp are patted dry before marinating. Toasting the orzo adds depth to the flavor. Taste and adjust seasoning throughout cooking for a perfectly balanced dish.

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