Description
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 cup orzo pasta
1 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp lemon zest
2 tbsp lemon juice
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
½ cup ricotta cheese
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Add the shrimp to the skillet, cooking for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through.
Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and fresh spinach. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts.
Add the cooked orzo to the skillet and mix until well combined.
Stir in the ricotta cheese, season with salt and pepper, and cook for another 1-2 minutes until creamy and heated through.
Serve garnished with fresh parsley and enjoy!
Prep Time: 10 minutes Cooking Time: 15 minutes Total Time: 25 minutes Kcal: 330 per serving Servings: 4 servings
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prep Ingredients: Before heating your skillet, ensure shrimp are peeled/deveined, garlic is minced, lemon is zested/juiced, and spinach is chopped. This “mise en place” is crucial for a smooth process.
2. Cook the Orzo: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package directions (typically 8-10 minutes) until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 60 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
4. Cook the Shrimp: Add shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until opaque and pink. Remove shrimp to a plate to prevent overcooking.
5. Wilt Spinach & Build Sauce: To the same skillet, add the lemon zest, lemon juice, and fresh spinach. Stir for 2-3 minutes until spinach wilts.
6. Combine: Add the drained orzo and cooked shrimp back to the skillet. Stir to combine and heat through.
7. Finish with Creaminess: Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the ricotta cheese until a creamy sauce forms and coats the pasta and shrimp. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
8. Garnish and Serve: Transfer to plates or a serving dish. Garnish generously with fresh chopped parsley.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy lemon shrimp orzo is a complete meal but can be elevated with simple sides. Serve with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness. For a touch of acidity, offer lemon wedges on the side. Crusty garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce. For a wine pairing, a chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the citrus and seafood flavors beautifully.
How-to Summary
Quickly cook orzo pasta. In a skillet, sauté garlic, then cook shrimp and set aside. In the same pan, wilt spinach with lemon zest and juice. Combine everything back in the skillet, off heat, and stir in ricotta cheese to create a creamy, no-cook sauce. Garnish with parsley.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes. Thaw frozen shrimp completely in the refrigerator overnight or under cold running water. Pat them very dry before cooking to ensure proper searing.
What can I substitute for ricotta cheese? Full-fat Greek yogurt, cream cheese, or a few tablespoons of heavy cream or crème fraîche can provide a similar creamy texture. The flavor profile will shift slightly.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water, broth, or lemon juice to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving, which can overcook the shrimp.
Can I use a different green instead of spinach? Absolutely. Chopped kale, arugula, or Swiss chard are excellent alternatives. For tougher greens like kale, add them a minute earlier to ensure they soften.
Is there a way to make this dish dairy-free? For a dairy-free version, omit the ricotta. Finish the dish with a drizzle of good olive oil and a squeeze of fresh lemon for brightness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcooking the shrimp, as they will become rubbery. Cook just until pink and opaque, then remove them from the pan. Do not add the ricotta cheese over high heat or boil it, as this can cause it to separate and become grainy. Always stir it in off the heat. Ensure your orzo is cooked al dente, as it will soften slightly when mixed with the sauce. Finally, do not skip patting the shrimp dry; wet shrimp will steam instead of sear.
Conclusion
This creamy lemon shrimp orzo is a testament to how a few quality ingredients can create an elegant, restaurant-worthy meal in under 30 minutes. The combination of tender shrimp, bright citrus, and rich ricotta makes for a perfectly balanced dish that is both comforting and sophisticated. By following the step-by-step guide and tips provided, you can easily master this recipe and adapt it to your taste. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for both busy weeknights and special occasions.