Delicious Homemade Garlic Butter Shrimp Orzo with Lemon & Fresh Herbs Recipe In 30 Minutes!

Why I Created This Garlic Butter Shrimp Orzo with Lemon & Fresh Herbs Recipe

This recipe was inspired by a night out at a seafood restaurant. I was craving the flavors and textures of garlic butter shrimp, but I wanted to make it easier to prepare at home. I’ve always loved the simplicity of orzo pasta paired with seafood, so I thought why not combine those two?

I started experimenting with different cooking methods and flavor combinations, trying to perfect a recipe that would capture that same magic. After a few trial runs, I finally landed on a winner that I’m excited to share with you.

This Garlic Butter Shrimp Orzo with Lemon & Fresh Herbs Recipe combines the sweetness of the shrimp, the zest of lemon, and the freshness of herbs all in one dish. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make and ready in just 30 minutes, making it the perfect solution for a busy weeknight dinner.

5 Reasons You Will Love This Garlic Butter Shrimp Orzo with Lemon & Fresh Herbs Recipe

First, this recipe is incredibly easy to make, perfect for a weeknight dinner when you’re short on time. The best part? It’s ready in just 30 minutes, so you can get dinner on the table quickly.

Second, the combination of garlic butter and lemon is absolute magic. It adds a depth of flavor to the dish that you just can’t get from plain old garlic or lemon on their own.

Third, this recipe is perfect for seafood lovers. The shrimp cooks quickly and pairs perfectly with the orzo and lemon.

Fourth, this recipe is incredibly versatile. You can serve it with a side of steamed vegetables or a simple green salad for a light meal.

Fifth, this recipe makes 4 servings, so it’s perfect for a family dinner or a small gathering with friends.

Ingredients for Garlic Butter Shrimp Orzo with Lemon & Fresh Herbs Recipe

• • 12 large shrimp
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 1 cup water
  • 2 cups mixed fresh herbs, chopped (such as parsley, basil, and dill)
  • 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 lemon, cut into wedges

Substitutions: You can use any type of pasta you like, such as linguine or fettuccine. You can also swap out the shrimp for scallops or chicken if you prefer.

Tools You Need to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp Orzo with Lemon & Fresh Herbs Recipe

• Saucepan
• Large skillet
• Colander
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board
• Kitchen shears

How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp Orzo with Lemon & Fresh Herbs Recipe Step by Step

Step 1: Cook the Orzo

Bring the water to a boil in a large saucepan and cook the orzo according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter

Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Stir in the lemon juice and season with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.

Step 4: Add the Fresh Herbs and Lemon

Add the chopped herbs to the skillet and cook for 1 minute, until wilted. Stir in the lemon wedges and cook for an additional minute.

Step 5: Combine the Orzo and Garlic Butter Shrimp

Add the cooked orzo to the skillet and toss with the garlic butter shrimp and herbs.

My Pro Tips for the Best Garlic Butter Shrimp Orzo with Lemon & Fresh Herbs Recipe

• Tip 1: Use fresh and high-quality ingredients for the best flavor. Don’t overcook the shrimp, or it will become tough.

Delicious Variations of Garlic Butter Shrimp Orzo with Lemon & Fresh Herbs Recipe

• Variation 1: Add some diced garlic to the pan when cooking the shrimp for an extra burst of flavor.

What to Serve With Garlic Butter Shrimp Orzo with Lemon & Fresh Herbs Recipe

This recipe makes a light and flavorful dinner perfect for serving with a side of steamed vegetables or a simple green salad. You can also serve it with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad.

How to Store Leftover Garlic Butter Shrimp Orzo with Lemon & Fresh Herbs Recipe

To store leftover orzo and shrimp, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat the pasta and shrimp in the microwave or on the stovetop until hot and steaming.

Frequently Asked Questions About Garlic Butter Shrimp Orzo with Lemon & Fresh Herbs Recipe

• Question 1? Can I use frozen shrimp in this recipe? Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, just thaw them first before cooking.

The Story Behind My Garlic Butter Shrimp Orzo with Lemon & Fresh Herbs Recipe

I’ve always been a seafood lover, and I’ve experimented with many different types of pasta and seafood over the years. This recipe is a culmination of all those experiments, and I’m so excited to share it with you. It’s a family favorite, and I know your family will love it too.

Pin This Garlic Butter Shrimp Orzo with Lemon & Fresh Herbs Recipe Recipe for Later

Don’t forget to pin this recipe for later and share it with your friends and family. With just 30 minutes to cook, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or weekends. Happy cooking!

Garlic Butter Shrimp Orzo with Lemon & Fresh Herbs Recipe

This quick and flavorful garlic butter shrimp orzo is a perfect dinner for busy weeknights. Made with succulent shrimp, fresh herbs, and a zesty lemon sauce, it's a recipe you'll make again and again.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 12 ounces shrimp
• 1 cup orzo
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Method

 

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the orzo according to package instructions, about 8-10 minutes, or until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water and then drain the orzo.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, for 2-3 minutes per side or until pink and cooked through. Transfer the shrimp to a plate and cover with foil to keep warm.
4. In the same skillet, add the reserved pasta water, parsley, basil, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine and bring the sauce to a simmer.
5. Add the cooked orzo to the skillet and toss with the sauce until well combined. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. To serve, divide the orzo mixture among four plates. Top each plate with a cooked shrimp and spoon some of the sauce over the top.

Notes

Pro Tips: Use fresh and high-quality ingredients for the best flavor. Don't overcook the shrimp, or it will become tough. Store leftover orzo and shrimp in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Variations: You can swap the orzo with other pasta shapes, like linguine or fettuccine. For an extra burst of flavor, add some diced garlic to the pan when cooking the shrimp.