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Savor Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Spinach Orzo

A comforting one-pot dish featuring shrimp, orzo, garlic, and fresh spinach, ready in under 30 minutes.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 400
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Seafood
  • 1 lb Shrimp (peeled and deveined) Provides a quick protein source.
Pasta
  • 1 cup Orzo pasta Cooks quickly and soaks up flavors.
Vegetables
  • 2 cups Fresh spinach Adds color and nutrients.
  • 3 cloves Garlic (minced) Flavor powerhouse.
Flavorings
  • 2 tbsp Lemon juice and zest Brightens up the dish.
  • 2 tbsp Olive oil For sautéing.
  • 2 cups Chicken broth (or vegetable broth) Deepens the flavor.
  • 1/4 tsp Red pepper flakes (optional) Adds a hint of heat.
  • to taste Salt and pepper Enhances flavors.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Start by cleaning your shrimp, chopping the garlic, and measuring out your orzo and broth.
Cooking
  1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant—about 1 minute.
  2. Toss the shrimp into the pot. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Cook for 2-3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp and set it aside.
  3. In the same pot, add the orzo and chicken broth. Bring to a boil and then reduce the heat, letting it simmer for about 8-10 minutes until the orzo is perfectly cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
  4. Stir in the fresh spinach and cooked shrimp, along with the lemon juice and zest. Cook for an additional minute until the spinach wilts down.
  5. Give your dish a taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve warm.

Notes

Feel free to get creative! Substitute proteins, add veggies like cherry tomatoes or bell peppers, or stir in a splash of cream for a creamy version. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.