Shrimp Orzo In Lemon Garlic Sauce

Shrimp Orzo in Lemon Garlic Sauce is a bright and tasty dish that's full of fresh flavors. The tender shrimp pairs perfectly with tiny, chewy orzo pasta, all tossed in…

By Willow • February 9, 2026 • Reading time: 7 min

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Shrimp Orzo in Lemon Garlic Sauce is a bright and tasty dish that’s full of fresh flavors. The tender shrimp pairs perfectly with tiny, chewy orzo pasta, all tossed in a zesty lemon and garlic sauce that brings everything together with a little tang and a lot of yum. It’s simple but feels special enough for any night of the week.

I love making this dish when I want something quick but also satisfying. The sauce is light and flavorful, so it never feels heavy or overwhelming. I usually sprinkle some fresh parsley on top to add a bit of color and freshness, and it really makes a difference. Plus, it’s one of those recipes that comes together quickly, which I appreciate on busy days.

My favorite way to enjoy this is with a side of steamed veggies or a crisp green salad to keep things bright and fresh. It’s great for sharing with family or friends, and I always find that the lemon garlic sauce is something people ask for seconds of. If you’re looking for dinner that’s easy, tasty, and a little bit special, this dish hits the spot every time.

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Shrimp: Fresh or frozen shrimp both work well. For a milder taste, use peeled and deveined shrimp. If you prefer, substitute with scallops or chicken breast for a different protein.

Orzo: This tiny pasta cooks fast and soaks up sauce nicely. You can substitute with small pasta like acini di pepe or small elbow macaroni if you don’t have orzo.

Lemon & Garlic: Fresh lemon juice and zest are vital for bright flavor. Fresh garlic is best here, but garlic powder can be used in a pinch. Adjust lemon amount if you love a more tangy kick.

Broth: Chicken or vegetable broth adds depth. If you want a lighter dish, water with a pinch of salt can work, though broth adds much more flavor.

Butter & Olive Oil: Combining these gives richness and smoothness. You can skip butter for a dairy-free version and use extra olive oil instead.

Feta Cheese: Optional but adds creaminess and a nice salty touch. Try grated Parmesan or skip cheese for a lighter finish.

How Do You Keep Shrimp Tender and Juicy?

Shrimp cook very quickly, so timing is key to avoid them getting rubbery. Here’s how:

• Pat shrimp dry before cooking to help them sear better.
• Cook over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes each side until pink and just opaque.
• Remove shrimp from heat right away; they’ll keep cooking a little in the residual heat.
• Avoid overcrowding the pan, so shrimp cook evenly and get a nice sear.

Following these tips helps you get shrimp that are perfectly tender and juicy in every bite.

Equipment You’ll Need

• Large skillet – great for cooking shrimp and making the lemon garlic sauce all in one pan.
• Medium saucepan – for boiling the orzo evenly without splashing.
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – helps you stir without scratching your pans.
• Fine mesh strainer – handy for draining the orzo quickly and thoroughly.
• Citrus zester or grater – makes it easy to get fresh lemon zest for bright flavor.

Flavor Variations & Add-Ins

• Swap shrimp for scallops or diced chicken for a different protein that also pairs well with lemon garlic.
• Add cherry tomatoes or spinach for extra color and a fresh vegetable boost.
• Stir in a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to give the sauce a gentle heat kick.
• Use goat cheese instead of feta for a creamier, tangier finish that melts nicely into the pasta.

How to Make Shrimp Orzo In Lemon Garlic Sauce?

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For The Main Dish:

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off as desired)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup onion, finely chopped (optional)
• 1 ¼ cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
• Juice of 1 large lemon (about 3 tablespoons)
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons crumbled feta cheese (optional)
• Lemon slices for garnish

How Much Time Will You Need?

This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and roughly 20 minutes to cook, making it a quick and delicious meal ready in under 30 minutes.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cook the Orzo:

Boil salted water in a medium saucepan and cook the orzo according to package directions until it’s tender but still slightly firm (al dente), usually about 7-9 minutes. Drain the orzo and set it aside while you prepare the rest of the dish.

2. Sauté the Shrimp:

Pat your shrimp dry with paper towels and lightly season with salt and pepper. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp in a single layer, cooking them 2-3 minutes on each side, until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

3. Make the Lemon Garlic Sauce:

Lower the heat to medium. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. If you’re using onion, sauté it for 2-3 minutes until soft and translucent. Then add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until you can smell its lovely aroma.

4. Add Broth and Lemon:

Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, then add the lemon juice and zest. If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle in the red pepper flakes. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

5. Combine Orzo and Sauce:

Add the cooked orzo to the skillet and stir so each piece of pasta gets coated with the lemon garlic sauce. Let it sit and absorb the flavors for about 2-3 minutes. Stir in the butter until it melts fully, giving the dish a rich finish. Taste and adjust salt and pepper if needed.

6. Finish with Shrimp and Garnish:

Return the shrimp to the skillet. Toss gently so they’re covered in sauce and warm them through for 1-2 more minutes. Serve by plating the shrimp and orzo, then sprinkle fresh parsley and crumbled feta cheese on top. Add a couple of lemon slices on the side for a pretty, fresh garnish.

Enjoy your tasty, fresh Shrimp Orzo in Lemon Garlic Sauce — a quick and satisfying meal perfect for any day!

Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?

Yes! Just be sure to fully thaw the shrimp before cooking. Thaw overnight in the fridge or place them in a sealed bag submerged in cold water for faster thawing. Pat them dry to avoid excess moisture when sautéing.

Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! Prepare the orzo and sauce, then cook the shrimp separately and add them just before serving to keep them tender. Store everything in the fridge for up to 2 days and reheat gently on the stove.

What Can I Substitute If I Don’t Have Orzo?

You can use small pastas like acini di pepe or small elbow macaroni as substitutes. Just adjust cooking times according to the package and drain well before adding to the sauce.

How Should I Store Leftovers?

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if it seems dry.