Shrimp Scampi With Orzo
Few dishes capture the essence of effortless elegance like shrimp scampi. This rendition pairs succulent shrimp with orzo, a quick-cooking pasta that absorbs the garlicky, buttery sauce to create a dish bursting with flavor in every bite.
Infused with bright notes of lemon, a touch of heat from red pepper flakes, and the richness of white wine, this recipe balances boldness and subtlety. The orzo, simmered directly in the pan sauce, becomes a glossy, flavorful base that enhances every mouthful.
Perfect for weeknights or entertaining guests, Shrimp Scampi with Orzo is a versatile dish that feels indulgent yet approachable. Serve it with a crisp salad or crusty bread, and watch it become a household favorite.
Shrimp Scampi With Orzo: Key Ingredients
- Shrimp: The star of the dish, tender and juicy, soaking up the garlicky, buttery sauce for a luxurious bite.
- Orzo: A delicate pasta that absorbs every drop of the flavorful pan sauce, creating a velvety, starchy base.
- Garlic: Aromatic and bold, infusing the dish with its irresistible, savory essence.
- Lemon: Bright and zesty, adding a refreshing balance to the rich and buttery flavors.
- White Wine: A subtle touch of acidity that elevates the sauce with depth and sophistication.
- Parsley: A vibrant garnish that adds freshness and a pop of color to every plate.
Shrimp Scampi With Orzo: Recipe Tips, Serving Suggestions, and FAQ
Recipe Tips
- Marinate for Maximum Flavor: Don’t skip the marination step! Combining shrimp with olive oil, lemon zest, red pepper flakes, and garlic not only infuses bold flavors but also tenderizes the shrimp. Let it sit for up to an hour for best results.
- Toast the Orzo: Toasting orzo in butter and olive oil adds a nutty depth to the dish. Stir it frequently during this step to evenly coat the pasta and avoid burning the garlic, which can turn bitter.
- Use Quality Wine and Stock: Choose a dry white wine you’d enjoy drinking; its quality directly impacts the sauce’s depth. Similarly, opt for seafood stock for a richer, more cohesive flavor, or chicken stock for a milder alternative.
What to Serve with Shrimp Scampi With Orzo
- Crisp Green Salad: A fresh salad with arugula, spinach, or mixed greens dressed in a lemon vinaigrette beautifully complements the rich, buttery flavors of the shrimp scampi.
- Crusty Artisan Bread: Serve with a warm, crusty loaf to soak up the delicious garlicky sauce. This adds texture and ensures no drop of sauce goes to waste.
- Steamed or Roasted Vegetables: Light vegetables like asparagus, green beans, or zucchini add color and a healthy side without overshadowing the main dish.
FAQ
- Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes! Thaw them completely in cold water before marinating for the best texture and flavor. - What can I substitute for white wine?
Use chicken or seafood stock with a teaspoon of white wine vinegar or lemon juice for acidity. - Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the orzo and marinate the shrimp in advance. Cook the shrimp just before serving for optimal flavor and texture. - What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of stock or water to revive the sauce’s consistency. Avoid overheating the shrimp to prevent it from becoming rubbery.
Shrimp Scampi With Orzo
Perfect for weeknights or entertaining guests, Shrimp Scampi with Orzo is a versatile dish that feels indulgent yet approachable. Serve it with a crisp salad or crusty bread, and watch it become a household favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 pound large shrimp peeled and deveined
- 4 garlic cloves finely minced
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest plus 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- ⅓ cup dry white wine
- 2 cups boiling water seafood stock, or chicken stock
- 3 tablespoons finely chopped parsley
- Kosher salt such as Diamond Crystal and freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Marinate the Shrimp
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine the shrimp with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, the lemon zest, red pepper flakes, ½ teaspoon of kosher salt, ¼ teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper, and half of the minced garlic. Mix thoroughly to coat the shrimp and set it aside to marinate. This step can be performed up to an hour in advance for optimal flavor.
- Toast the Orzo
- In a medium skillet set over medium heat, melt the butter and add the remaining olive oil. Once the butter begins to bubble, incorporate the remaining garlic and the orzo. Stir frequently and cook until the orzo achieves a light golden hue, approximately 2 minutes. Adjust the heat as needed to prevent the garlic from scorching. Carefully pour in the wine—it will sizzle upon contact—and stir until it is fully absorbed, about 1 minute.
- Cook the Orzo
- Gradually add the boiling water or stock to the skillet. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the orzo simmer gently until it is cooked al dente, approximately 12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Shrimp
- Arrange the marinated shrimp in an even layer on top of the cooked orzo. Cover the skillet and cook until the shrimp turn pink and are thoroughly cooked, which should take 2 to 4 minutes. Remove the skillet from heat and allow it to rest, covered, for an additional 2 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle the dish with chopped parsley and drizzle with lemon juice. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed. Serve immediately to enjoy the vibrant, garlicky flavors at their peak.
