Quick and Creamy Shrimp Scampi Orzo for Effortless Dinners

A delightful shrimp scampi orzo recipe combining shrimp and orzo in a creamy sauce, ready in just 30 minutes.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 20

Total Time 30

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Mediterranean

Calories: 400

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Sauce

2 tablespoons Butter Adds richness and a creamy texture. Substitute with olive oil for a lighter option.
4-5 cloves Garlic, minced Provides aromatic depth and a savory punch.
1/4 - 1/2 teaspoon Crushed Red Pepper Flakes Adds mild to moderate heat. Adjust based on spice preference; omit for none.
1/2 cup Dry White Wine Enhances the sauce with acidity and flavor. Use chicken broth instead for an alcohol-free version.

For the Main Ingredients

1 pound Shrimp, uncooked, peeled, tails removed The main protein, lending a sweet, briny flavor.
1 cup Orzo Pasta, uncooked Serves as the hearty base, absorbing flavors from the broth.
2 cups Chicken Broth Provides moisture and additional flavor.
1 tablespoon Lemon Juice Brightens the dish.

Finishing Touches

1 tablespoon Fresh Parsley, chopped Adds color and freshness.
Salt & Pepper Essential seasonings for flavor enhancement.
optional Parmesan Cheese, freshly grated Enhances umami and creaminess.

Equipment

Dutch oven

Method

Step-by-Step Instructions for Shrimp Scampi Orzo

In a Dutch oven over medium-high heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter until foamy. Add 1 pound of uncooked shrimp and cook for about 2 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
Add another tablespoon of butter along with 1 cup of orzo, 4-5 minced garlic cloves, and 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 2 minutes until orzo is lightly toasted and garlic is fragrant.
Pour in 1/2 cup of dry white wine and bring to a bubbling simmer for 30 seconds or until most liquid has evaporated.
Stir in 2 cups of chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil. Simmer uncovered for about 12 minutes, stirring frequently.
Return the sautéed shrimp, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, and 1 tablespoon of chopped parsley. Let sit for 3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper and serve hot.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 36gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 200mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Taste as you go and customize spice levels according to preference.

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