One-Pan Lemon Garlic Shrimp Orzo Simple Dinner Delight

Looking for a quick, delicious dinner? One-Pan Lemon Garlic Shrimp Orzo is your answer! This simple dish combines tender shrimp, zesty lemon, and savory orzo, all cooked together in one pan. With easy steps and tasty ingredients, you’ll impress your family without the fuss. Get ready to savor bright flavors and a satisfying meal in just 30 minutes! Let’s dive in and cook this mouthwatering delight.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients List

– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

– 1 cup orzo pasta

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

Flavor Enhancers

– 4 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 medium onion, finely chopped

– 1 yellow bell pepper, diced

Cooking Essentials

– 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth

– 1 lemon, zested and juiced

– 1 teaspoon dried oregano

– Salt and pepper to taste

– Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

– Lemon slices for garnish

This dish shines with fresh ingredients. The large shrimp give it a sweet taste. Orzo pasta adds a lovely texture. Olive oil brings everything together with richness.

Next, we have the flavor enhancers. Garlic is a must; it adds a warm aroma. Onion and yellow bell pepper bring sweetness and color. Together, they create a great base for this meal.

For cooking essentials, low-sodium chicken broth adds depth without too much salt. The lemon juice and zest brighten the dish. Dried oregano gives it a nice earthiness. Don’t forget salt and pepper for seasoning. Fresh parsley on top adds color and freshness. Lemon slices serve as a lovely garnish.

Using these simple ingredients, you can make a delightful meal that impresses!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Sautéing the Vegetables

– First, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

– Once the oil shimmers, add 1 medium onion, finely chopped, and 1 diced yellow bell pepper. Cook these for 4-5 minutes. They should soften and smell great.

– Next, add 4 cloves of minced garlic. Stir it for 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

Toasting the Orzo

– Now, it’s time for the orzo. Add 1 cup of orzo pasta to the skillet. Stir often for about 2 minutes. This will toast the orzo and bring out its flavor.

Simmering the Dish

– Carefully pour in 2 cups of low-sodium chicken broth. Turn up the heat to bring it to a boil.

– When it boils, lower the heat and cover the skillet. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes. Stir it occasionally. The orzo should be tender and soak up the broth.

– After that, add 1 pound of peeled and deveined shrimp. Also, add the zest and juice of 1 lemon, and 1 teaspoon of dried oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for an extra 3-5 minutes. The shrimp should turn pink and be cooked through.

Final Touches

– Once cooked, take the skillet off the heat. Let it sit uncovered for a couple of minutes. This helps all the flavors blend nicely.

– Just before serving, garnish with freshly chopped parsley and arrange lemon slices on the side. This adds a nice touch and brightens the dish.

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Shrimp

To ensure the shrimp cooks perfectly, choose large shrimp. They cook evenly and stay juicy. Cook them until they turn pink. This usually takes 3-5 minutes. Avoid overcooking, or they will become rubbery.

To enhance savory flavors, use fresh lemon zest. It brightens the dish. Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can also give it a nice kick. It adds warmth without overpowering the shrimp.

Ideal Serving Suggestions

Serve this dish straight from the skillet. It looks colorful and inviting. The bright yellow from the lemon zest and the green from parsley create a lovely contrast. Use lemon slices as a garnish for added flair.

For side dishes, consider a fresh salad. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette pairs well. Garlic bread is another great option. It complements the flavors and soaks up the tasty broth.

Preparing Ahead of Time

You can make the orzo ahead of time. Cook it until al dente, drain, and store it in the fridge. This saves time when you are ready to cook.

Store the shrimp and vegetables separately before cooking. This keeps everything fresh. Chop your vegetables and store them in an airtight container. This makes it easy to throw everything together on cooking day.

Variations

Different Proteins

You can switch shrimp with chicken for a hearty twist. Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breast. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Sauté it until golden brown before adding the garlic. This adds a rich, savory flavor to the dish.

For vegetarians, consider using chickpeas or tofu. Chickpeas are great for protein and flavor. Tofu soaks up the lemon and garlic well. Both options keep the dish filling and satisfying.

Additional Flavors

Add vegetables for a boost of nutrition. Spinach or kale works well. You can toss them in during the last few minutes of cooking. This adds color and health benefits. You can also try zucchini or cherry tomatoes for more flavor.

Incorporate spices for a different taste. A pinch of red pepper flakes gives heat. You can also add smoked paprika for a warm, smoky flavor. Experimenting with spices makes each meal unique and exciting.

Gluten-Free Options

For gluten-free diners, use gluten-free orzo alternatives. Look for rice or quinoa-based pasta. They cook similarly and absorb flavors well. Make sure to check the cooking time, as it may differ.

Adjustments for gluten-sensitive diners are simple. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. This keeps the dish tasty while being safe for all. Always read labels to ensure all ingredients are gluten-free.

Storage Info

Refrigeration Tips

Store leftover One-Pan Lemon Garlic Shrimp Orzo in an airtight container. Make sure to cool it to room temperature first. This keeps the dish fresh and safe to eat later. It lasts in the fridge for 2 to 3 days.

When you reheat the orzo, use low heat on the stove. Add a splash of broth or water to keep it moist. Stir often to heat evenly. You can also use the microwave, but cover it to avoid splatters.

Freezing Instructions

To freeze the dish, let it cool completely. Then, place it in a freezer-safe container. Seal it tightly to prevent freezer burn. This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months.

When you want to enjoy it, transfer the container to the fridge overnight. This helps it thaw gently. For a quicker option, you can microwave it on low power. Stir it often for best results, ensuring even warmth.

FAQs

How do I know when the shrimp is cooked?

Shrimp cooks fast. Look for these signs:

– The shrimp changes from gray to pink.

– They curl into a C shape.

– The flesh becomes opaque.

Cook shrimp for about 3 to 5 minutes. Overcooked shrimp get tough. Keep an eye on them as they cook. You’ll love the juicy texture when they’re just right.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, you can make this dish vegetarian! Here are some good substitutes:

– Replace shrimp with chickpeas or tofu.

– Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

– Add more veggies like spinach or zucchini.

These swaps keep the dish tasty and filling. You won’t miss the shrimp, and it still tastes great!

How do I store leftover One-Pan Lemon Garlic Shrimp Orzo?

Store leftovers safely to enjoy later. Here are some steps:

– Place the cooled dish in an airtight container.

– Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.

– For longer storage, freeze it for up to 2 months.

When reheating, use low heat on the stove or microwave. Add a splash of broth or water to keep it moist. Enjoy the flavors again!

This recipe blends large shrimp, orzo pasta, and vibrant veggies for a tasty meal. We sautéed vegetables, toasted the orzo, and simmered shrimp for rich flavors. With tips for perfecting shrimp and serving ideas, you can make it a hit. Consider variations for different diets, and store leftovers well. Enjoy your cooking journey with this simple yet delicious dis