Shrimp scampi with orzo is a delightful, quick-to-make dish that combines succulent shrimp with a rich, garlic-butter sauce, all served on a bed of tender orzo pasta. This recipe is a blend of Mediterranean and Italian influences, delivering a burst of flavors in every bite.
Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, it’s a harmonious symphony of zesty garlic, plump shrimp, and the delicate texture of orzo. Whether you’re a seafood lover or a culinary explorer, this shrimp scampi with orzo recipe is sure to impress.
Shrimp Scampi with Orzo
Ingredients
For the Shrimp Scampi
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
For the Orzo
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions to Make Scampi with Orzo
- Start by cooking the orzo. Bring the chicken or vegetable broth to a boil in a medium saucepan. Stir in the orzo, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 8-10 minutes or until the orzo is tender. Drain and set aside.
- Melt the butter and olive oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet. Add and cook the minced garlic for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet, and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you prefer some heat. Sauté for 2-3 minutes per side until the shrimp turns pink and opaque.
- Pour in the white wine (if using) and lemon juice. Allow it to simmer for another 2-3 minutes to reduce the sauce slightly.
- Stir in the fresh parsley and adjust the seasoning if needed.
- Serve the shrimp scampi over the cooked orzo. Garnish with additional parsley and lemon wedges if desired.
Recipe Variations
- Lemon Herb Shrimp with Orzo: Substitute the white wine with extra lemon juice and add fresh herbs like basil and thyme for a herb-infused flavor.
- Sun-Dried Tomato and Spinach Orzo: Mix sun-dried tomatoes and baby spinach into the orzo for a burst of color and flavor.
- Creamy Shrimp Scampi with Orzo: Add a touch of heavy cream to the sauce for a rich, creamy version of this dish.
What To Serve With Orzo Shrimp Scampi
- Garlic Bread: A classic choice to mop up the delicious sauce.
- Green Salad: A fresh and crisp salad with a lemon vinaigrette.
- Roasted Asparagus: Seasoned and roasted for a flavorful side.
- Steamed Broccoli: A healthy and colorful option.
- Bruschetta: A flavorful tomato and basil topping on toasted baguette slices.
- Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of Parmesan on top adds a delightful touch.
Conclusion
Shrimp scampi with orzo is a culinary masterpiece that brings the flavors of the Mediterranean and Italy to your plate. This dish offers a delightful combination of succulent shrimp, a zesty garlic-butter sauce, and perfectly cooked orzo.
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- Ina Garten Scalloped Potatoes
- Bonefish Pesto Dipping Oil Recipe
- Falafel Rice Bowl Recipe
- Barefoot Contessa Orzo Salad with Cucumber
Shrimp Scampi with Orzo Recipe
Ingredients
For the Shrimp Scampi
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
For the Orzo
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Start by cooking the orzo. Bring the chicken or vegetable broth to a boil in a medium saucepan. Stir in the orzo, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 8-10 minutes or until the orzo is tender. Drain and set aside.
- Melt the butter and olive oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet. Add and cook the minced garlic for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet, season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you prefer some heat. Sauté for 2-3 minutes per side until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
- Pour in the white wine (if using) and lemon juice. Allow it to simmer for another 2-3 minutes to reduce the sauce slightly.
- Stir in the fresh parsley and adjust the seasoning if needed.
- Serve the shrimp scampi over the cooked orzo. Garnish with additional parsley and lemon wedges if desired.
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