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Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Spinach Orzo

Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Spinach Orzo: Quick Elegance in 25 Minutes

A quick and elegant Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Spinach Orzo dish that elevates your dinner experience with rich flavors in just 25 minutes.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Shrimp
  • 1 pound Fresh Shrimp Provides essential protein and B12; use fresh for best taste.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Gives aromatic depth; avoid burning.
For the Orzo Base
  • 1 cup Orzo Pasta Acts as a creamy base; can swap with penne or fettuccine.
  • 2 cups Spinach Adds color and nutrition; can substitute with kale.
For Flavor Enhancement
  • 1 whole Lemon (Zest & Juice) Brightens flavor; use fresh for max taste.
  • 2 tablespoons Butter Creates a rich sauce.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Works well with butter for richness.
For Sauce Consistency
  • 1 cup Pasta Water Adds moisture; reserve before draining orzo.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Large skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then cook the orzo according to package instructions, typically about 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter and 2 tablespoons of olive oil until shimmering, about 1-2 minutes.
  3. Add fresh shrimp in a single layer to the skillet, cooking for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and curled. Transfer to a plate to keep warm.
  4. In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant and lightly golden.
  5. Add drained orzo, fresh spinach, lemon juice, and a splash of reserved pasta water, stirring until spinach wilts, about 2 minutes.
  6. Return cooked shrimp to skillet and sprinkle with fresh lemon zest, tossing to combine and warm for an additional minute.
  7. Remove from heat and serve immediately, garnished with extra lemon zest if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 25gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 300mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 2000IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Use fresh shrimp for best flavor and avoid overcrowding them in the skillet for optimal searing. Always reserve pasta water to achieve desired sauce consistency.

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