Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Spinach Orzo
Welcome to this delicious recipe for Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Spinach Orzo! If you’re looking for a quick and flavorful dish that combines the freshness of shrimp with the earthiness of spinach and the zesty tang of lemon, you’ve come to the right place. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want to whip up something deliciously satisfying in no time. Let’s dive right in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are so many reasons to love this Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Spinach Orzo recipe. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation, you’ll have a mouthwatering meal on the table in under 30 minutes. Additionally, this dish is bursting with flavor. The combination of garlic, lemon, and shrimp creates a tantalizing taste that will leave you craving more. And if you’re watching your diet, you’ll be happy to know that this recipe is both low in calories and packed with nutritious ingredients like spinach. It’s a win-win!
Ingredients
Here are the ingredients you’ll need for this scrumptious Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Spinach Orzo:
– 1 pound of shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 lemon, juiced and zested
– 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
– 4 cups of fresh spinach
– 1 cup of orzo pasta
– Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your own Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Spinach Orzo:
- Start by cooking the orzo pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook until pink and opaque, approximately 2-3 minutes per side.
- Squeeze the juice of the lemon over the shrimp and sprinkle with lemon zest. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for an additional 2 minutes, until slightly softened.
- Finally, add the fresh spinach and cooked orzo to the skillet. Toss everything together until the spinach wilts and the ingredients are well combined.
- Remove from heat and serve hot.
Expert Tips for Success
For the best results with this recipe, consider the following tips:
– Use fresh shrimp for maximum flavor and texture.
– Don’t overcook the shrimp to prevent them from becoming tough and rubbery.
– Adjust the amount of garlic and lemon to suit your personal taste preferences.
– Feel free to add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
Variations and Substitutions
If you’re looking to put your own spin on this recipe, here are a few ideas:
– Swap the shrimp for chicken or tofu for a different protein option.
– Substitute the spinach with kale or Swiss chard for a variation in greens.
– Add some diced bell peppers or zucchini for extra vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
To make the most of your Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Spinach Orzo, consider serving it with:
– A side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
– A fresh green salad for a light and refreshing accompaniment.
– A glass of chilled white wine to complement the flavors of the dish.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp instead of fresh?
A: Yes, frozen shrimp can be used in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the components in advance and quickly cook them when ready to serve.
Q: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
A: Absolutely! Simply omit the shrimp and increase the amount of vegetables or substitute with your preferred protein.
Final Thoughts
There you have it – a delightful recipe for Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Spinach Orzo that is sure to impress your taste buds. With its vibrant flavors, easy preparation, and healthy ingredients, this dish is perfect for any occasion. Give it a try and let us know what you think!
Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Spinach Orzo
A quick, flavorful dish that combines the freshness of shrimp with the earthiness of spinach, zesty tang of lemon, and cherry tomatoes, all served over orzo pasta.
Ingredients
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 4 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Start by cooking the orzo pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook until pink and opaque, approximately 2-3 minutes per side.
- Squeeze the juice of the lemon over the shrimp and sprinkle with lemon zest. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for an additional 2 minutes, until slightly softened.
- Finally, add the fresh spinach and cooked orzo to the skillet. Toss everything together until the spinach wilts and the ingredients are well combined.
- Remove from heat and serve hot.
Nutrition Facts
