Creamy Orzo and Shrimp Skillet (30 Minutes)

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This creamy orzo and shrimp skillet is the epitome of a satisfying, one-pan wonder. Imagine plump shrimp, tender orzo, earthy mushrooms, sweet peas, and a burst of lemon, all brought together in a luscious creamy sauce and finished with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan. It’s a dish that combines simplicity with elegance, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions!

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (you can leave the tails on if you wish)
  • 8 ounces orzo pasta
  • 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Zest and juice of 1 lemon
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
  • Lemons, for serving

Instructions

  1. Cook the Orzo: Start by cooking the orzo according to package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Sear the Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for about 1-2 minutes per side until they turn pink. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
  3. Sauté the Mushrooms: In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms and cook them until they are browned and tender, about 5 minutes. Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper.
  4. Add Garlic and Orzo: Stir in the minced garlic and cooked orzo. Sauté for another 2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant.
  5. Combine Ingredients: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken or vegetable broth, stirring well. Let it simmer for 5 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken and the flavors to meld.
  6. Add Peas and Shrimp: Add the frozen peas and seared shrimp back into the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the peas are heated through and the shrimp are fully cooked.
  7. Lemon and Parmesan: Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and grated Parmesan cheese. Cook for an additional 2 minutes until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
  8. Season and Serve: Taste the skillet and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley.

Notes

For the best-tasting dish, be mindful not to overcook the shrimp; they should turn pink and opaque but not rubbery. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little more broth to reach your desired creamy consistency. Use fresh ingredients, especially the lemon zest, for the best flavor. Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes. Serve this dish with a simple green salad and your favorite bread and enjoy!

*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

Find it online: https://www.heresyourdinner.com/creamy-orzo-and-shrimp-skillet-30-minutes/