When I first tried One Skillet Lemon Pepper Shrimp and Orzo, it was love at first bite. The zesty lemon combined with tender shrimp and creamy orzo created a meal that felt special yet was ridiculously easy to make.
I couldn’t believe how such simple ingredients could result in such a flavorful, restaurant-quality dish riaght in my kitchen. What I love most is how everything comes together in one pan, leaving me with a delicious dinner and minimal cleanup.
With its pops of vibrant lemon and the comfort of orzo, this recipe has quickly become a staple in my weeknight meal rotation. And the best part? It’s light, satisfying, and so versatile. Trust me, once you make it, you’ll be coming back to it again and again.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
This one-skillet meal checks all the boxes for taste, convenience, and versatility.
Quick and Easy
Everything cooks in a single pan, saving time and effort. Whether it’s prepping or cleaning up, this dish proves that fast food doesn’t have to come in a paper bag. Plus, it’s ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Packed with Flavor
The combination of zesty lemon, fresh shrimp, and buttery orzo creates layers of flavor that feel both refreshing and indulgent. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil enhances the dish with a burst of freshness.
Versatile and Customizable
From adding veggies like spinach to swapping orzo for a gluten-free option, this dish adapts to your preferences with ease. You can also adjust the seasoning to make it as mild or as bold as you like.
Nutrient-Packed
Loaded with protein from the shrimp and fibre-packed orzo (especially if you use whole-grain options), This meal is as nourishing as it is delicious. A squeeze of lemon not only boosts the flavour but also adds a dose of vitamin C.
Cooking Time
Here’s how much time you’ll need to make this vibrant dish:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful skillet meal:
- Shrimp (peeled and deveined) – 1 lb
- Orzo pasta – 1 cup
- Fresh lemon (zest and juice) – 1
- Shallots – 2, finely chopped
- Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
- Unsalted butter – 2 tbsp
- Extra-virgin olive oil – 2 tbsp
- Vegetable or chicken broth – 1 ½ cups
- Fresh baby spinach (or asparagus) – 2 cups
- Kosher salt – to taste
- Black pepper – to taste
- Fresh parsley (optional garnish) – 2 tbsp, chopped
Variations
This recipe is incredibly flexible, so feel free to make it your own!
- Dietary Swaps: Use gluten-free small pasta or rice instead of orzo to fit gluten-free diets. Sub dairy-free butter for a lactose-free option.
- Experiment with Veggies: Add asparagus, frozen peas, or chopped zucchini for more color and nutrients.
- Protein Alternatives: Don’t have shrimp? Try chicken or scallops for a different twist.
Equipment You’ll Need
Here’s what makes this recipe a breeze to prepare.
- Large Skillet or Sauté Pan with Lid: Ideal for cooking all ingredients in one pan.
- Zester or Grater: For fresh lemon zest.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For precise ingredient measurements.
How to Make One Skillet Lemon Pepper Shrimp and Orzo?
Cooking this dish might be the easiest part of your day. Follow these simple steps to create a mouthwatering dinner.
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp🦐
Before you start cooking, season the shrimp with salt and pepper to ensure maximum flavor. Pat them dry with a paper towel for a nice sear.
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp
Heat a mix of butter and olive oil in your skillet over medium heat. Once hot, arrange the shrimp in a single layer and cook for about 3 minutes. Flip them over and cook for another minute until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Aromatics
Add more butter and olive oil to the skillet. Toss in the shallots and garlic, letting them sauté gently until fragrant. This step releases a sweet and savory base for the dish.
Step 4: Toast the Orzo
Stir the orzo into the skillet with the shallots and garlic. Toast it lightly for 1–2 minutes to bring out a nutty flavor and add depth to the dish.
Step 5: Add Stock and Simmer
Pour the broth into the skillet along with a pinch of salt and fresh cracked pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10–12 minutes until the orzo absorbs the liquid and becomes tender.
Step 6: Incorporate Vegetables
During the last few minutes of cooking, stir in fresh spinach or asparagus. Cover the skillet for a couple of minutes until the vegetables are tender and vibrant.
Step 7: Add Lemon and Shrimp🦐🍋
Stir in the lemon zest and juice to brighten up the flavors. Finally, nestle the cooked shrimp back into the skillet, allowing them to warm through before serving. Garnish with parsley for a fresh finish.
Tips for Making the Recipe
Take your dish to the next level with these handy tips.
Use Quality Shrimp: Fresh or frozen shrimp work well, but make sure they’re peeled and deveined to save time. Avoid precooked shrimp, as they tend to dry out during reheating.
Cook Orzo to Perfection: Keep an eye on the orzo while it cooks to ensure it absorbs the stock and reaches an al dente texture. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Add Veggies Wisely: Stirring in vegetables toward the end helps them retain their vibrant color and crunch without overcooking.
How to Serve One Skillet Lemon Pepper Shrimp and Orzo?
This dish shines as is, but pairing it with thoughtful sides makes it even more exciting.
Serve it with a refreshing cucumber and feta salad, crusty garlic bread, or roasted veggies like broccoli or carrots. For added flair, garnish with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese.
Nutritional Information
Here’s what you can expect from each serving of this dish.
- Calories: 340
- Protein: 19g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fat: 14g
Make Ahead and Storage
Whether you’re meal prepping or saving leftovers, this recipe holds up wonderfully.
Make Ahead
You can marinate the shrimp and chop the veggies ahead of time to make the cooking process even faster. Storing the ingredients separately ensures everything stays fresh.
Storage
To store leftovers, transfer them to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. For reheating, add a splash of broth or water to rehydrate the orzo and microwave in short intervals.
This One Skillet Lemon Pepper Shrimp and Orzo is the perfect blend of simplicity and elegance. From busy weeknights to casual dinner parties, this dish will deliver incredible flavor and have everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy! 😊
One Skillet Lemon Pepper Shrimp And Orzo
Ingredients
- Shrimp peeled and deveined – 1 lb
- Orzo pasta – 1 cup
- Fresh lemon zest and juice – 1
- Shallots – 2 finely chopped
- Garlic – 3 cloves minced
- Unsalted butter – 2 tbsp
- Extra-virgin olive oil – 2 tbsp
- Vegetable or chicken broth – 1 ½ cups
- Fresh baby spinach or asparagus – 2 cups
- Kosher salt – to taste
- Black pepper – to taste
- Fresh parsley optional garnish – 2 tbsp, chopped
Instructions
- Before you start cooking, season the shrimp with salt and pepper to ensure maximum flavor. Pat them dry with a paper towel for a nice sear.
- Heat a mix of butter and olive oil in your skillet over medium heat. Once hot, arrange the shrimp in a single layer and cook for about 3 minutes. Flip them over and cook for another minute until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.
- Add more butter and olive oil to the skillet. Toss in the shallots and garlic, letting them sauté gently until fragrant. This step releases a sweet and savory base for the dish.
- Stir the orzo into the skillet with the shallots and garlic. Toast it lightly for 1–2 minutes to bring out a nutty flavor and add depth to the dish.
- Pour the broth into the skillet along with a pinch of salt and fresh cracked pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10–12 minutes until the orzo absorbs the liquid and becomes tender.
- During the last few minutes of cooking, stir in fresh spinach or asparagus. Cover the skillet for a couple of minutes until the vegetables are tender and vibrant.
- Stir in the lemon zest and juice to brighten up the flavors. Finally, nestle the cooked shrimp back into the skillet, allowing them to warm through before serving. Garnish with parsley for a fresh finish.
Notes
- Use Quality Shrimp: Fresh or frozen shrimp work well, but make sure they’re peeled and deveined to save time. Avoid precooked shrimp, as they tend to dry out during reheating.
- Cook Orzo to Perfection: Keep an eye on the orzo while it cooks to ensure it absorbs the stock and reaches an al dente texture. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Add Veggies Wisely: Stirring in vegetables toward the end helps them retain their vibrant color and crunch without overcooking.
