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Shrimp Scampi Orzo Recipe

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4.3 from 80 reviews

A flavorful and easy Shrimp Scampi Orzo recipe featuring tender shrimp sautéed with garlic, butter, and white wine, combined with toasty orzo pasta and fresh herbs for a bright and satisfying meal ready in just 35 minutes.

Ingredients

Shrimp Marinade

  • 1 lb. large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 2 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
  • 3/4 tsp. kosher salt
  • 1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper

For Cooking

  • 2 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
  • 4 Tbsp. butter, divided
  • 1/3 cup minced shallots
  • Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes
  • 3 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
  • 1/3 cup dry white wine (or broth mixed with a splash of white wine vinegar)
  • 1 cup dry orzo pasta
  • 2 3/4 cups water
  • 1/2 tsp. kosher salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Garnish

  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 2 Tbsp. chopped fresh chives
  • Juice of 1 lemon (from the zested lemon)
  • Olive oil drizzle

Instructions

  1. Marinate Shrimp: Place the peeled and deveined shrimp in a bowl, then toss with 1 Tbsp. olive oil, the zest of one lemon, 2 thinly sliced garlic cloves, 3/4 tsp. kosher salt, and 1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper. Allow it to marinate briefly while preparing the other ingredients.
  2. Cook Shrimp: Heat 2 Tbsp. butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once melted, add the marinated shrimp and cook until they turn opaque, approximately 3 minutes. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and transfer to a clean bowl, keeping them warm.
  3. Sauté Aromatics and Toast Orzo: To the same skillet, add the remaining 1 Tbsp. olive oil and 2 Tbsp. butter along with minced shallots, crushed red pepper flakes, and the remaining 3 sliced garlic cloves. Sauté until fragrant, about 3 minutes. Stir in the dry orzo pasta and toast the grains for 1 to 2 minutes to enhance flavor.
  4. Add Liquids and Simmer: Pour in the white wine (or broth with white wine vinegar alternative) and allow it to simmer for 2 minutes to reduce slightly. Season the mixture with 1/2 tsp. kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  5. Simmer Orzo: Add 2 3/4 cups of water and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed, approximately 12 minutes. Note that cooking time may vary depending on simmering intensity.
  6. Combine and Garnish: Stir the cooked shrimp back into the skillet along with half of the chopped fresh parsley and chives. Finish by garnishing with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, a drizzle of olive oil, the remaining fresh herbs, and a few grinds of black pepper before serving.

Notes

  • Dry orzo pasta can be substituted with other small pasta shapes if unavailable.
  • If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, use broth combined with a splash of white wine vinegar as suggested.
  • Adjust garlic and crushed red pepper flakes to taste for more or less heat and pungency.
  • Toast the orzo well to enhance nutty flavors and prevent mushiness.
  • Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.

Find it online: https://justsosavory.com/shrimp-scampi-orzo-recipe/