Shrimp Scampi Orzo
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
â–¢1 lb. large shrimp, peeled and deveined
â–¢2 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil, divided
â–¢1 lemon, divided
â–¢5 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
â–¢Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper
â–¢4 Tbsp. butter, divided
â–¢1/3 cup minced shallots
â–¢Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes
â–¢1/3 cup dry white wine (or broth mixed with a splash of white wine vinegar)
â–¢1 cup dry orzo pasta
â–¢1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
â–¢2 Tbsp. chopped fresh chives
The Directions
Step 1: Season and Sauté Shrimp
Place shrimp in a bowl and toss with olive oil, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add shrimp and cook until opaque, about 3 to 4 minutes. Transfer shrimp mixture to a clean bowl.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
Add remaining butter and olive oil to pan, along with garlic, shallots, and chili flakes; cook 3 minutes until soft. Stir in orzo and let toast for about 1 minute. Add white wine, salt, and pepper; cook 2 more minutes to reduce.
Step 3: Cook Orzo
Add water and gently simmer until orzo is al dente, about 12 minutes. Add shrimp back to pan, along with fresh herbs. Serve with lemon wedges, a drizzle of olive oil, and extra black pepper.
Shrimp Scampi Orzo is a fantastic one-pot meal that combines the tender sweetness of large shrimp with the comforting bite of orzo pasta. To elevate this dish even further, consider using peeled and deveined shrimp that are freshly caught or sustainably sourced to enhance natural flavors. When preparing the orzo, toasting it lightly in the pan before adding liquid helps develop a subtle nuttiness and a richer texture. The recipe calls for dry white wine or a broth with white wine vinegar, which imparts a bright acidity balancing the richness of butter and olive oil. If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, using chicken or vegetable broth with a splash of lemon juice can simulate this effect. Adding crushed red pepper flakes gives a mild heat that complements the garlic and shallots, creating complex layers of flavor without overwhelming the dish. Fresh herbs like parsley and chives brighten the final dish and add a pleasant herbal aroma. When serving, a wedge of lemon on the side allows each person to customize the citrus tang according to taste, going perfectly with the succulent shrimp. For an effortless weeknight dinner, this shrimp scampi orzo can be prepared within 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy schedules. Pair it with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded and satisfying meal. This recipe’s one-pot approach minimizes cleanup while delivering maximum flavor, perfect for those who want gourmet tastes with easy preparation.