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Homemade Zesty Lemon Pepper Shrimp Orzo recipe photo

Zesty Lemon Pepper Shrimp Orzo

This Zesty Lemon Pepper Shrimp Orzo is bright, flavorful, and quick! Tender shrimp, lemon, and pepper combine with creamy orzo for a perfect, satisfying meal.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 8 ounces orzo pasta look for high-quality orzo for the best texture
  • 1 pound shrimp peeled and deveined, fresh or frozen works, fresh is best
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil extra virgin for richer flavor
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest freshly grated from unwaxed lemons
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice freshly squeezed for maximum brightness
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper freshly cracked for more aromatic spice
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved, choose ripe and juicy tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped, for a fresh, herbaceous finish
  • salt to taste

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • Grater or zester
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Colander
  • Measuring spoons
  • Tongs or spatula

Method
 

Step 1: Cook the Orzo
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces of orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions, about 7 to 9 minutes, until al dente. Drain the orzo in a colander and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp
  1. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add shrimp, sprinkle with 1 teaspoon black pepper and salt to taste, and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque.
Step 3: Add Lemon and Tomatoes
  1. Add 1 teaspoon lemon zest, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, and 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet with shrimp. Stir gently and allow tomatoes to soften slightly, about 2 minutes.
Step 4: Combine Orzo and Finish
  1. Add cooked orzo back to skillet and toss to coat with lemony olive oil and shrimp mixture. Remove from heat and sprinkle with 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley. Adjust salt and pepper if needed.
Step 5: Serve
  1. Serve immediately, garnished with extra parsley or a lemon wedge for added freshness.

Notes

  • Always zest and juice lemons just before cooking for the freshest flavor.
  • Do not overcook shrimp; cook until just opaque to avoid rubbery texture.
  • Add a splash of heavy cream or Greek yogurt at the end for a creamy variation.