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Creamy Garlic Shrimp Orzo

Creamy Garlic Shrimp Orzo – Your Quick Mediterranean Escape

Experience the flavors of the Mediterranean with this quick and easy creamy garlic shrimp orzo, perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 420

Ingredients
  

For the Shrimp Marinade
  • 1 pound large shrimp Substitute with chicken or chickpeas for variation.
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda Not needed if you are marinating overnight.
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes Optional based on spice preference.
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt Adjust to taste.
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper Adjust to taste.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil Substitute with avocado oil for a neutral flavor.
For the Orzo Base
  • 1 cup orzo pasta Substitute with any small pasta like ditalini or gluten-free orzo.
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter Can be replaced with vegan butter for a dairy-free version.
  • 3 cloves garlic cloves Use garlic powder in a pinch (1/4 tsp per clove).
  • 3 cups low-sodium chicken stock Substitute with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
For the Finishing Touches
  • 1 medium lemon Use lime for a different citrus flavor.
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta Substitute with goat cheese or omit for a dairy-free version.
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley Can swap for basil or omit entirely.

Equipment

  • medium bowl
  • large skillet
  • separate pan

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a medium bowl, combine large shrimp with baking soda, red pepper flakes, kosher salt, black pepper, and olive oil. Toss until well-coated and let sit for at least 10 minutes to absorb flavors.
  2. In a large skillet, melt unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the orzo and toast for 2–3 minutes until golden and nutty.
  3. Stir in minced garlic to the toasted orzo, cooking for 30 seconds or until fragrant. Do not burn the garlic.
  4. Pour in low-sodium chicken stock, ensuring the orzo is covered. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10–12 minutes.
  5. While the orzo is cooking, heat a separate pan over medium-high heat with olive oil. Add the marinated shrimp and sear for 1–2 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
  6. Once the orzo is cooked, stir in lemon zest and juice, then add the seared shrimp back into the skillet. Fold in crumbled feta and parsley.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 420kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 28gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 200mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 40mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Marinate shrimp for at least 10 minutes for flavor and moisture retention. Stir the orzo occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. Serve fresh for the best texture.

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