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Creamy Shrimp & Lemon Orzo

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Creamy Shrimp & Lemon Orzo is a delightful dish that combines succulent shrimp with tender orzo pasta, all enveloped in a rich, zesty cream sauce. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into an unforgettable meal, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. With its vibrant colors and mouthwatering aroma, this dish is sure to impress family and friends while making your taste buds sing.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • Juice and zest of 1 lemon
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 1 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. 1. Cook the orzo: In a pot of salted boiling water, cook the orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving 1 cup of pasta water.
  2. 2. Sauté the shrimp: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt olive oil and butter. Add shrimp seasoned with salt and pepper; cook until pink and opaque (about 3-4 minutes). Remove from skillet.
  3. 3. Add garlic: Stir in minced garlic into the same skillet, cooking until fragrant (approximately 30 seconds).
  4. 4. Create the cream sauce: Pour in heavy cream, lemon juice, and zest. Simmer gently for 3-5 minutes until slightly thickened.
  5. 5. Combine everything: Add fresh spinach until wilted, then stir in cooked orzo and gradually mix in reserved pasta water to achieve desired creaminess.
  6. 6. Finish with cheese: Add grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and well combined. Adjust seasonings before serving hot.

Nutrition

Keywords: For added flavor, consider incorporating fresh herbs like parsley or dill. Substitute shrimp with chicken or scallops if preferred. For a kick of spice, add red pepper flakes during cooking.

Find it online: https://flavorsecret.com/irresistible-creamy-shrimp-lemon-orzo-recipe-delight/