Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with our incredible Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi with Orzo!
This dish is a game-changer, combining succulent shrimp, aromatic garlic, and velvety butter sauce with tender orzo pasta.
Did you know that shrimp scampi has been an Italian-American favorite since the 1920s? But our twist with orzo takes it to a whole new level!
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen newbie, this recipe will have you cooking like a pro in no time.
Let’s dive in and create some culinary magic!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1/3 cup dry white wine
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Kitchen Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Medium pot for cooking orzo
- Colander
- Cutting board and sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Garlic press (optional)
- Zester or grater for lemon zest
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Cook the orzo in a pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- While the orzo cooks, pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 1-2 minutes per side until pink and just cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add the remaining olive oil and butter. Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in the white wine and lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce the liquid slightly.
- Add the cooked orzo to the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to heat through.
- Return the shrimp to the skillet and add the chopped parsley. Toss everything together gently to combine and heat the shrimp.
- Remove from heat and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley and lemon wedges if desired.
Tips for Perfectly Cooked Shrimp
- Don’t overcook the shrimp! They’re done when they turn pink and curl into a loose “C” shape.
- Cook shrimp for about 1-2 minutes per side, depending on their size.
- Remove shrimp from heat as soon as they’re opaque throughout – they’ll continue cooking slightly from residual heat.
Flavor Variations and Additions
- Spice it up with extra red pepper flakes or a dash of cajun seasoning.
- For a Mediterranean twist, add some capers, halved cherry tomatoes, and sliced Kalamata olives.
- Boost the veggie content by adding sautéed spinach or roasted bell peppers.
Wine Pairing Suggestions
- A crisp Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements the garlic and lemon flavors beautifully.
- For red wine lovers, a light-bodied Pinot Noir can work well.
- Non-alcoholic option: Try a sparkling water with a splash of lemon juice for a refreshing pairing.
Serving and Presentation Ideas
- Garnish with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color.
- Serve alongside a simple green salad or steamed asparagus for a complete meal.
- For an elegant presentation, serve in shallow bowls and swirl the orzo around the shrimp.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to revive the sauce.
- Alternatively, microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until heated through.
There you have it, folks – your ticket to an unforgettable Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi with Orzo experience!
Don’t be afraid to add your own twist on this recipe. Now go forth and conquer that kitchen – your delicious reward awaits!
Recipe FAQ’s
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the components separately and assemble just before serving.
What can I substitute for white wine?
You can use chicken broth or seafood stock as a non-alcoholic alternative.
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi with Orzo
This Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi with Orzo is a delightful Italian-American dish that combines succulent shrimp with tender orzo pasta in a flavorful garlic butter sauce.Ready in just 35 minutes, it's perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp peeled and deveined
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 6 cloves garlic minced
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- ⅓ cup dry white wine
- Juice of 1 lemon
- ¼ cup fresh parsley chopped
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook the orzo in a pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- While the orzo cooks, pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 1-2 minutes per side until pink and just cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add the remaining olive oil and butter. Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in the white wine and lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce the liquid slightly.
- Add the cooked orzo to the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to heat through.
- Return the shrimp to the skillet and add the chopped parsley. Toss everything together gently to combine and heat the shrimp.
- Remove from heat and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley and lemon wedges if desired.