Dive into the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with our Lemon Shrimp Orzo Asparagus recipe! This dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also a tantalizing treat for your taste buds, combining succulent shrimp, tender asparagus, and zesty lemon over perfectly cooked orzo. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a meal that feels gourmet yet is simple enough for any home cook. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, this dish is sure to impress. Ready to elevate your weeknight dinners? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz orzo pasta
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and bring to a rolling boil. Add a pinch of salt to the water and cook orzo according to package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- While orzo is cooking, prepare the shrimp and asparagus. Pat shrimp dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
- Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are just cooked through. Remove shrimp from the pan and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add asparagus and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender-crisp and bright green.
- Return shrimp to the skillet and add cooked orzo. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the mixture and sprinkle lemon zest.
- Gently toss all ingredients together, ensuring even coating and heating. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Remove from heat and transfer to serving plates. Garnish with additional lemon zest or fresh herbs like parsley if desired.
Tips
- Perfectly Cooked Orzo: To achieve al dente orzo, make sure to follow the package instructions closely. It should be firm to the bite, as it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the hot shrimp and asparagus.
- Seasoning the Shrimp: Don’t skimp on seasoning the shrimp! A light sprinkle of salt and pepper enhances their natural flavor. For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh lemon juice and zest will elevate the dish’s flavor profile. If possible, opt for fresh asparagus instead of frozen for the best texture.
- One-Pan Wonder: To save on cleanup, cook the orzo in the same pot you use for the shrimp and asparagus. Just make sure to drain it well before adding it back to the skillet.
- Garnish for Flair: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil not only adds color but also freshness to the dish. A few extra lemon zest shavings on top can brighten the presentation.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This recipe can be easily doubled for meal prep. Just store the leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of olive oil or water.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 180mg