Name: Lemon Shrimp Orzo Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 pound shrimp (uncooked, peeled and deveined); 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 tablespoon olive oil (divided); Pinch of salt and pepper; 1 tablespoon olive oil (divided); 2 tablespoons butter; 1 shallot (minced); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1 cup orzo pasta (uncooked); ¼ cup white wine; 2 cups chicken broth (low sodium); Pinch saffron (optional); 2 cups baby spinach leaves; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 1 teaspoon lemon zest; 2/3 cup feta (cubed); 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (minced); Salt and pepper (to taste)

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 75 reviews

There is something truly delightful about combining the bright zing of lemon with tender shrimp and the comforting texture of orzo pasta, and that’s exactly what makes this Lemon Shrimp Orzo Recipe a standout dinner in any weeknight lineup. This dish is a perfect harmony of fresh ingredients that come together quickly and effortlessly, delivering a vibrant meal that feels both light and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or company, the juicy shrimp, zesty lemon, and creamy feta make every bite memorable and full of flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white pan filled with one layer of cooked shrimp that are pink and white with slightly curled tails, scattered evenly inside. The shrimp are seasoned with small bits of green herbs and a light coating of oil, giving them a shiny texture. The pan has two handles, one visible at the top and the other at the bottom, sitting on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering simple yet thoughtfully selected ingredients is the secret to this dish’s success. Each element brings its own unique flair—aromatics, seasoning, and fresh greens blend perfectly to create a harmony of taste, texture, and color.

Shrimp (1 pound, peeled and deveined): Fresh or thawed shrimp bring a juicy, tender protein that cooks surprisingly fast.
Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): Adds a fragrant blend of herbs to enhance the shrimp’s flavor.
Olive oil (2 tablespoons, divided): Provides richness and helps create a crispy sear on the shrimp.
Butter (2 tablespoons): Adds a silky depth and helps soften the shallots.
Shallot (1, minced): Offers a subtle sweetness and gentle crunch.
Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Infuses the dish with savory warmth.
Orzo pasta (1 cup, uncooked): The tiny rice-shaped pasta provides a creamy texture once cooked.
White wine (¼ cup): Gives a wonderful acidity and helps deglaze the pan for extra flavor.
Chicken broth (2 cups, low sodium): Cooks the orzo and infuses it with savory goodness.
Saffron (pinch, optional): Adds a subtle earthy aroma and golden tint.
Baby spinach leaves (2 cups): Delivers freshness and a pop of green color.
Fresh lemon juice (2 tablespoons) and lemon zest (1 teaspoon): The bright heroes that lift the whole dish with citrusy vibrance.
Feta cheese (2/3 cup, cubed): Brings creamy saltiness that perfectly balances the lemon.
Fresh parsley (2 tablespoons, minced): Adds a final fresh note and eye-catching color.
Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential seasoning to harmonize every flavor element.

How to Make Lemon Shrimp Orzo Recipe

Step 1: Season and Sear the Shrimp

Start by placing the shrimp in a large bowl and tossing them with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This simple coating infuses the shrimp with herbal flavor while helping them develop a beautiful sear. Heat the remaining olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add the shrimp and cook them quickly, about 3 to 5 minutes. Turning the shrimp ensures they cook evenly and get that lovely pink color. Once done, transfer them to a plate and keep them warm while you prepare the rest of the dish.

Step 2: Sauté Shallots and Garlic

In the same skillet, add the butter and let it melt completely. The buttery base is where the magic happens next, softening the minced shallots into a tender, fragrant bed. Add a pinch of salt and pepper here to deepen the flavor. After the shallots are softened, usually 2-3 minutes, toss in the garlic and cook for a brief 30 seconds until fragrant—this quick step prevents the garlic from burning but guarantees it releases its rich aroma.

Step 3: Toast the Orzo

Next, sprinkle the orzo into the skillet, stirring for 2 minutes to toast the pasta lightly. This toasting step enhances the nuttiness of the orzo and provides a slightly firmer texture, making each bite wonderfully satisfying. Toasting also allows the orzo to better absorb the liquids you’ll add shortly.

Step 4: Deglaze with White Wine

Pour in the white wine, scraping up any flavorful browned bits stuck to the skillet’s bottom. These bits carry intense flavor and elevate the dish’s taste complexity. Let the wine cook down for 1 to 2 minutes until it evaporates almost completely, concentrating its bright acidity and sweetness.

Step 5: Simmer the Orzo in Broth and Saffron

Add the chicken broth and saffron, if using, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cooking the orzo in broth infuses it with savory depth, while saffron adds a subtle earthiness and a gorgeous golden hue. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and cook until the orzo is just tender but still has a slight bite, about 8 minutes. Stir in the baby spinach and cook until just wilted, adding fresh green vibrance and a tender texture.

Step 6: Finish with Shrimp, Feta, Lemon, and Parsley

Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet along with cubed feta cheese, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and parsley. Gently toss everything to combine, allowing the warm ingredients to meld together. The creamy feta melts slightly, complementing the tangy lemon and fresh herbs beautifully. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper to your liking, ensuring each bite bursts with balanced flavor.

How to Serve Lemon Shrimp Orzo Recipe

A top view of a round white pot filled with a dish made of three main layers: yellow orzo pasta forms the base layer with a slightly shiny texture; on top, pink cooked shrimp are scattered evenly around the pot, showing some curled shapes; mixed in are fresh dark green spinach leaves, adding color contrast and texture; small white cheese cubes are spread throughout the dish in small chunks. A white spoon rests inside the pot partially lifting the ingredients on one side. The pot sits on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes can elevate the presentation and taste. Try sprinkling extra chopped parsley or a few lemon zest strands on top just before serving for a burst of freshness and color. A drizzle of good-quality olive oil adds a glossy finish and richness that makes the dish look as wonderful as it tastes.

Side Dishes

This Lemon Shrimp Orzo Recipe pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette, or roasted vegetables like asparagus or cherry tomatoes. For a more indulgent meal, garlic bread or a crusty baguette are perfect for soaking up the luscious orzo sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun presentation, serve the orzo in individual shallow bowls and top each portion with extra shrimp and a wedge of lemon. You can also hollow out lemons and use them as serving vessels for a charming, rustic look that’s sure to impress guests at your next dinner party.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Lemon Shrimp Orzo keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. As the pasta and shrimp absorb more liquid over time, you might find the texture softens slightly, but refreshing it with a quick warm-up keeps it tasty.

Freezing

Freezing this dish is possible but not ideal due to the delicate texture of shrimp and creamy feta, which can change upon thawing. If you do freeze, use a freezer-safe container and consume within one month for the best quality. Thaw slowly in the refrigerator before reheating gently.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers over low heat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the orzo if it has thickened. Stir frequently to warm evenly and maintain the creamy consistency while avoiding overcooking the shrimp.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before seasoning and cooking to get that perfect sear and texture.

What can I substitute for white wine?

If you prefer to skip the wine, a splash of extra chicken broth with a squeeze of lemon juice works well to maintain acidity and depth, keeping the dish flavorful.

Is saffron necessary in this recipe?

Saffron adds a lovely aroma and color but is optional. You can leave it out without sacrificing much in flavor, and your orzo will still shine.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! You can omit the shrimp and add hearty vegetables like mushrooms or artichokes for a satisfying vegetarian alternative that pairs beautifully with the lemon and feta.

How do I know when the orzo is perfectly cooked?

Orzo should be tender but still have a slight bite; cook it until just shy of al dente and finish cooking with the shrimp and lemon to avoid mushiness.

Final Thoughts

Trust me, once you try this Lemon Shrimp Orzo Recipe, it will quickly become one of your favorite go-to meals. It strikes the perfect balance between fresh, zesty flavors and comforting textures, all ready in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re new to cooking or an experienced home chef, this dish is a wonderful way to bring something special yet effortless to the table. Give it a whirl and watch it become a family favorite in no time!