Shrimp and Orzo Skillet with Sweet Peas, Lemon, and Parmesan (35 Minutes)

Send it straight to your inbox, and cook it when you're ready!

This post may contain affiliate links that help keep my recipes free. Thank you for your support!

Print

Print Recipe

Enjoy the light and refreshing flavors of a shrimp and orzo skillet, a one-pan wonder that’s perfect for any day of the week.

This dish combines tender shrimp with orzo pasta, sweet peas, and a zest of lemon, topped with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a delightful finish.

It’s an excellent choice for a quick yet elegant meal, offering a beautiful balance of seafood savoriness and vegetable sweetness, all brought together with citrusy undertones and the rich touch of cheese.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 lemon, zested and juiced
  • 1 cup sweet peas (fresh or frozen)
  • 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
  • Lemon wedges, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prep Shrimp (5 minutes):
    Season the shrimp with salt and pepper. Set aside.
  2. Sauté Aromatics (5 minutes):
    In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
  3. Cook Orzo (10 minutes):
    Add the orzo to the skillet, stirring to coat it in the oil and toast it lightly. Pour in the broth, bring to a simmer, and let the orzo cook until it’s al dente, about 9-10 minutes.
  4. Add Shrimp and Peas (5 minutes):
    When the orzo is just about done, add the shrimp and peas to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp are pink and opaque.
  5. Finish with Lemon and Parmesan (5 minutes):
    Stir in the lemon zest and juice, then sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the skillet. Stir until the cheese is melted and the ingredients are well combined.
  6. Garnish and Serve (2 minutes):
    Remove the skillet from the heat. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges before serving.

Equipment

Notes

For the best results, be sure not to overcook the shrimp and orzo, ensuring each ingredient retains its distinct texture and flavor.

Serve this dish with a side of crusty bread, a side salad, and perhaps a chilled glass of white wine for a complete meal.

Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual dining experience, this skillet meal is sure to impress with its vibrant flavors and colorful presentation.

*Please keep in mind that the following nutritional information is based on estimates and can vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients used.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 850mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 35g
  • Cholesterol: 220mg

Pair this with...

Garlic Breadsticks

To whip up a batch of garlic breadsticks, start with a basic dough mixture of flour, water, yeast, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Knead until smooth and let it rise until doubled. Once risen, divide the dough into even portions and roll each into the classic breadstick shape. Place them on a baking sheet with a little space in between. While they take a short rest, melt some butter and mix in minced garlic, a touch of salt, and perhaps some chopped parsley for a fresh twist. Brush this delightful garlic butter mixture over the top of each breadstick. Pop them into a preheated oven and bake until they're golden brown and emit that irresistible garlic aroma. Once out of the oven, give them another quick brush with the remaining garlic butter for good measure.

Caesar Side Salad

Start with fresh romaine lettuce—tear it into bite-sized pieces and toss it into a bowl. Drizzle on some Caesar dressing; you can make your own with garlic, anchovies, egg yolks, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and olive oil, or use a store-bought version for convenience. Give the lettuce a good toss to ensure it's well-coated. Sprinkle on some grated Parmesan cheese for that sharp, savory punch. Top it off with croutons for that essential crunch. If you're feeling a bit fancy, a couple of anchovy fillets can be added on top. Serve immediately.

Garlic Butter Mushrooms

Start by heating your trusty cast iron skillet or pan over medium heat, adding a generous pat of butter. As the butter melts and begins to sizzle, toss in finely minced garlic and let it infuse its aromatic essence. Before the garlic browns, introduce the whole mushrooms, making sure they've been cleaned and patted dry. The key is to give them space, so they brown nicely rather than steam. As they cook, turn them occasionally so they get a beautiful sear on all sides. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Once the mushrooms are golden and tender, finish off with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

For Tomorrow's Dinner

Angel Hair with Shrimp and Parmesan (20 Minutes)

Bacon Smash Burger Taco (32 Minutes)

Thin Crust Supreme Pizza (25 Minutes)

Crispy Honey Walnut Shrimp (40 Minutes)

Hi, I'm Alaina! As a busy mom of two, I'm tired of always wondering "what's for dinner?" That's why I created this website; to share easy and tasty recipe ideas the whole family will love. If you're not subscribed yet, join 47,098 others here - thanks for stopping by!