20 Delicious Shrimp and Orzo Recipes for Every Occasion

Dive into the delightful world of shrimp and orzo with our roundup of 20 delicious recipes that promise to spice up your mealtime! Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight dinner, a seasonal favorite, or a bowl of comforting goodness, we’ve got you covered. Perfect for home cooks across North America, these dishes are sure to inspire your next culinary adventure. Keep reading to discover your new go-to recipe!

Garlic Butter Shrimp and Orzo

Garlic Butter Shrimp and Orzo is a one-pan wonder that combines succulent shrimp with tender orzo pasta, all bathed in a rich garlic butter sauce. It’s a quick, flavorful dish that feels indulgent yet comes together in no time.

Ingredients

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

1. In a large skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add the orzo and toast, stirring frequently, until golden, about 3 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes to the skillet, stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Pour in the chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 10 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed.
4. While the orzo cooks, season the shrimp with a pinch of salt and pepper. In a separate pan, melt the remaining 1 tbsp butter over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2 minutes per side, until pink and opaque.
5. Stir the cooked shrimp, Parmesan cheese, and parsley into the orzo. Serve immediately.

The magic of this dish lies in the orzo’s ability to soak up the garlic butter sauce, creating a creamy texture without any cream. The shrimp adds a sweet, briny contrast that’s simply irresistible.

Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, use shrimp shells to make a quick stock and substitute it for the chicken broth.

Lemon Herb Shrimp and Orzo Salad

Brighten up your meal prep with this Lemon Herb Shrimp and Orzo Salad, a refreshing dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious.

Ingredients

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup sliced Kalamata olives

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook orzo according to package instructions, then drain and rinse under cold water.
2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add shrimp, garlic, 1/4 tsp salt, and 1/8 tsp black pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until shrimp are pink and opaque. Remove from heat.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together remaining olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, parsley, dill, remaining salt, and pepper. Add orzo, shrimp, feta, and olives, tossing gently to combine.

The zestiness of the lemon and the freshness of the herbs make this salad a standout, with the feta adding a creamy contrast to the crisp shrimp.

Tip: For an extra crunch, sprinkle with toasted pine nuts before serving.

Spicy Tomato Shrimp and Orzo Stew

Warm up your evening with this Spicy Tomato Shrimp and Orzo Stew, a comforting bowl that’s bursting with flavors and ready in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup orzo
• 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add diced tomatoes and chicken broth, bringing to a boil. Stir in orzo, reduce heat to simmer, and cook for 10 minutes.
4. Add shrimp, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
5. Remove from heat and stir in fresh parsley.

The magic of this stew lies in the orzo, which thickens the broth into a creamy texture while soaking up all the spicy tomato goodness.

Tip: For an extra kick, add an additional 1/4 tsp of red pepper flakes.

Creamy Parmesan Shrimp and Orzo

Dive into this Creamy Parmesan Shrimp and Orzo for a comforting meal that’s as easy to make as it is delicious, blending tender shrimp with creamy, cheesy orzo in one skillet.

Ingredients

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add shrimp, season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes, and cook for 2 minutes per side until pink. Remove shrimp and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in orzo and cook for 1 minute to lightly toast.
3. Pour in chicken broth, bring to a simmer, and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and liquid is mostly absorbed.
4. Reduce heat to low, stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until the sauce is creamy and smooth. Return shrimp to the skillet and cook for an additional 2 minutes to heat through.
5. Sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.

The magic of this dish lies in the orzo’s ability to soak up all the creamy, garlicky flavors while staying perfectly al dente, making every bite a delightful mix of textures.

Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a splash of white wine to the skillet when you sauté the garlic.

Mediterranean Shrimp and Orzo Bowl

Dive into the flavors of the Mediterranean with this vibrant Shrimp and Orzo Bowl, a one-pan wonder that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.

Ingredients

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 2 tbsp lemon juice

Instructions

1. Cook orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add 3 cloves minced garlic, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper, sautéing for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
4. Stir in cooked orzo and 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes, cooking for an additional 2 minutes to warm through.
5. Remove from heat and sprinkle with 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese, 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, and drizzle with 2 tbsp lemon juice.

The magic of this dish lies in the bright lemon juice and briny feta, which perfectly complement the tender shrimp and hearty orzo.

Tip: For an extra burst of flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic.

One-Pot Shrimp and Orzo with Feta

This One-Pot Shrimp and Orzo with Feta is a breeze to make, packing a punch of Mediterranean flavors in every bite—perfect for a weeknight dinner that feels anything but ordinary.

Ingredients

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 lemon, juiced

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add shrimp, season with salt and black pepper, and cook for 2 minutes per side until pink. Remove shrimp and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Stir in orzo, toasting for 1 minute. Pour in chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer. Cover and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and liquid is absorbed.
4. Return shrimp to the skillet, mixing gently. Sprinkle with feta cheese, parsley, and lemon juice. Cover for 1 minute to let the cheese soften slightly.

The magic of this dish lies in the creamy feta melting into the orzo, creating a luxurious texture that pairs beautifully with the bright, spicy shrimp.

Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, add a pinch of dried oregano to the orzo as it cooks.

Roasted Red Pepper Shrimp and Orzo

This Roasted Red Pepper Shrimp and Orzo is a vibrant, one-pan wonder that brings together smoky peppers and succulent shrimp in a garlicky, lemony sauce—perfect for a weeknight dinner that feels anything but ordinary.

Ingredients

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 roasted red peppers, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Add orzo to the skillet and toast for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Pour in chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 10 minutes, or until orzo is al dente.
4. Stir in roasted red peppers, shrimp, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cover and cook for 5 minutes, or until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
5. Remove from heat, drizzle with lemon juice, and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

The magic of this dish lies in the smoky depth of the roasted peppers paired with the bright acidity of lemon, creating a balance that’s both comforting and refreshing.

Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, char your own red peppers under the broiler for 10 minutes before slicing.

Shrimp and Orzo with Spinach and Artichokes

Dive into this creamy, dreamy Shrimp and Orzo with Spinach and Artichokes, a one-pot wonder that’s as easy to make as it is delicious.

Ingredients

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• 1 cup artichoke hearts, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes, sautéing for 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Add orzo to the skillet, stirring to coat with the oil and garlic mixture. Toast for 2 minutes.
3. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Cook for 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
4. Stir in shrimp, spinach, and artichoke hearts. Cook for 4 minutes, until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
5. Reduce heat to low. Add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy. Serve immediately.

The magic of this dish lies in the creamy orzo that perfectly soaks up the flavors of the shrimp and artichokes, creating a comforting meal that’s packed with texture and taste.

Tip: For an extra burst of flavor, squeeze a little lemon juice over the dish before serving.

Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Shrimp and Orzo

Bring a taste of the Mediterranean to your table with this Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Shrimp and Orzo, a dish that’s as vibrant in flavor as it is in color.

Ingredients

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Cook the orzo according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes, sautéing for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Pour in 1/2 cup chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Bring to a simmer.
5. Return the cooked orzo and shrimp to the skillet, tossing to combine. Stir in the fresh basil and 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese until everything is well coated and heated through.

The sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil create a bright, herbaceous flavor that pairs perfectly with the tender shrimp and creamy orzo, making this dish a standout for any weeknight dinner.

Tip: For an extra burst of flavor, reserve a few basil leaves to garnish the dish before serving.

Cajun Spiced Shrimp and Orzo

Spice up your weeknight dinner with this Cajun Spiced Shrimp and Orzo, a dish that brings a little Southern heat to your table in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tbsp lemon juice

Instructions

1. In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add the orzo and toast, stirring frequently, until golden, about 3 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, heat the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil. Add the shrimp, Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Cook until the shrimp are pink and opaque, about 2 minutes per side. Remove shrimp and set aside.
3. Add the garlic, red bell pepper, and onion to the skillet. Sauté until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Return the toasted orzo to the skillet. Pour in the chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer until the orzo is tender and the liquid is absorbed, about 10 minutes.
5. Stir in the cooked shrimp, parsley, and lemon juice. Cook for an additional minute until everything is heated through.

The magic of this dish lies in the toasted orzo, which absorbs all the Cajun flavors and chicken broth, creating a richly seasoned base that complements the spicy shrimp perfectly.

Tip: For an extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the Cajun seasoning.

Shrimp and Orzo with Lemon Garlic Sauce

Dive into the bright flavors of the Mediterranean with this Shrimp and Orzo dish, where tender pasta meets succulent shrimp in a vibrant lemon garlic sauce.

Ingredients

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink. Remove shrimp and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tbsp olive oil. Sauté garlic and red pepper flakes for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Stir in lemon juice and chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly reduced.
5. Return shrimp and orzo to the skillet. Toss everything together with parsley until well coated and heated through.

The magic of this dish lies in the balance of tangy lemon and spicy garlic, creating a sauce that clings beautifully to every bite of orzo and shrimp.

Tip: For an extra burst of freshness, zest a lemon over the finished dish before serving.

Baked Shrimp and Orzo with Mozzarella

This Baked Shrimp and Orzo with Mozzarella is a cozy, one-pan wonder that brings the Mediterranean to your kitchen with minimal fuss and maximum flavor.

Ingredients

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 2 cups chicken broth

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Add orzo to the skillet and toast for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally. Pour in chicken broth, then add cherry tomatoes, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a simmer.
3. Arrange shrimp on top of the orzo mixture. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly over the shrimp.
4. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

The magic of this dish lies in the orzo absorbing all the savory flavors while baking, creating a creamy texture that pairs perfectly with the juicy shrimp and melted mozzarella.

Tip: For an extra crispy cheese top, broil for the last 2 minutes of baking.

Shrimp and Orzo Pasta Salad with Avocado

This Shrimp and Orzo Pasta Salad with Avocado is a refreshing, protein-packed dish that’s perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner. It’s bursting with flavors and textures that will delight your taste buds.

Ingredients

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 avocado, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder

Instructions

1. Cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions, then drain and set aside to cool.
2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp, 1/4 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, and 1/4 tsp garlic powder. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Remove from heat and let cool.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooled orzo, shrimp, diced avocado, red onion, and parsley.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 tbsp lemon juice, and 1/4 tsp salt. Pour over the salad and toss gently to combine.
5. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for an hour to let the flavors meld together.

The creamy avocado and zesty lemon dressing make this salad irresistibly fresh, while the orzo and shrimp add a satisfying heartiness. It’s a dish that feels both indulgent and light.

Tip: For an extra crunch, sprinkle some toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds on top before serving.

Herbed Shrimp and Orzo with Cherry Tomatoes

Bright, herby, and bursting with juicy tomatoes, this Herbed Shrimp and Orzo dish is a weeknight hero that feels anything but ordinary.

Ingredients

• 1 cup orzo
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1/2 lemon, juiced

Instructions

1. Cook orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add shrimp, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 2 minutes per side until shrimp are pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add garlic and cherry tomatoes. Cook for 3 minutes until tomatoes soften slightly.
4. Return shrimp to the skillet. Add cooked orzo, parsley, dill, and lemon juice. Toss everything together and cook for 1 minute until heated through.

The magic of this dish lies in the fresh herbs and lemon juice, which lift the shrimp and orzo to vibrant new heights.

Tip: For an extra burst of flavor, zest the lemon before juicing and sprinkle the zest over the finished dish.

Shrimp and Orzo in a Creamy Dill Sauce

Dive into the comforting flavors of the sea with this Shrimp and Orzo in a Creamy Dill Sauce, a dish that marries tender shrimp with pillowy orzo in a sauce that’s rich yet refreshing.

Ingredients

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp lemon juice

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. While the orzo cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer and cook for 3 minutes until slightly thickened.
4. Stir in the cooked orzo, shrimp, fresh dill, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice. Cook for an additional 2 minutes until everything is heated through and well coated in the sauce.

The magic of this dish lies in the creamy dill sauce that clings to every bite, offering a luxurious texture with a bright, herby finish that elevates the simple shrimp and orzo to something special.

Tip: For an extra burst of freshness, garnish with additional dill and a squeeze of lemon right before serving.

Shrimp and Orzo with Olives and Capers

Dive into this Mediterranean-inspired Shrimp and Orzo with Olives and Capers, a dish that brings the sea and the sun to your table in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

• 1 cup orzo
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
• 2 tbsp capers, drained
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced

Instructions

1. Cook orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add 3 cloves minced garlic and 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes, sautéing for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet, seasoning with 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until shrimp are pink and opaque.
4. Stir in cooked orzo, 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, and 2 tbsp capers. Cook for another 2 minutes to combine flavors.
5. Remove from heat and stir in 1/4 cup chopped parsley, the zest of 1 lemon, and 2 tbsp lemon juice.

The briny pop of olives and capers against the sweet shrimp and zesty lemon makes every bite a vibrant mix of flavors.

Tip: For an extra touch of richness, sprinkle with feta cheese before serving.

Asian-Inspired Shrimp and Orzo Stir Fry

This Asian-Inspired Shrimp and Orzo Stir Fry is a quick, flavorful weeknight dinner that brings a delightful twist to your usual pasta routine.

Ingredients

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp ginger, grated
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 cup snap peas, trimmed
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
• 2 green onions, sliced
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds

Instructions

1. Cook orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook for 2 minutes per side until pink. Remove shrimp and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add garlic and ginger, sautéing for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add red bell pepper and snap peas, cooking for 3 minutes until slightly tender.
4. Return shrimp to the skillet. Stir in cooked orzo, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until everything is well combined and heated through.
5. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

The combination of sweet honey and savory soy sauce with the crunch of snap peas makes this dish a standout. It’s a perfect balance of flavors and textures that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.

Tip: For an extra kick, add a splash of sriracha to the stir fry just before serving.

Shrimp and Orzo with Roasted Vegetables

Dive into this comforting bowl of Shrimp and Orzo with Roasted Vegetables, where succulent shrimp meets tender pasta and vibrant veggies for a meal that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.

Ingredients

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes), chopped
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/2 lemon, juiced

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F. Toss the mixed vegetables with 1 tbsp olive oil, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20 minutes until tender and slightly charred.
2. Meanwhile, cook the orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp, minced garlic, and dried oregano. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until the shrimp are pink and opaque.
4. Combine the cooked orzo, roasted vegetables, and shrimp in the skillet. Stir in the fresh parsley and lemon juice. Cook for another minute to blend the flavors.

The magic of this dish lies in the contrast between the juicy shrimp, the al dente orzo, and the smoky sweetness of the roasted vegetables, all brought together with a bright splash of lemon.

Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle some crumbled feta cheese on top before serving.

Shrimp and Orzo Soup with Kale

Warm up with a bowl of this comforting Shrimp and Orzo Soup with Kale, a hearty dish that combines the sweetness of shrimp with the earthy tones of kale and the satisfying chew of orzo.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 cups kale, chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until soft, about 5 minutes.
2. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Stir in the orzo, reduce heat to a simmer, and cook for 8 minutes.
3. Add the shrimp, kale, salt, black pepper, and dried oregano. Cook for another 4 minutes until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
4. Remove from heat and let sit for 2 minutes before serving.

The magic of this soup lies in the quick cooking time of the shrimp, ensuring they stay tender and juicy, while the orzo absorbs the flavorful broth perfectly.

Tip: For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the oregano.

Shrimp and Orzo with Pesto and Pine Nuts

Dive into this vibrant Shrimp and Orzo with Pesto and Pine Nuts, a dish that brings the freshness of the Mediterranean right to your table with minimal fuss.

Ingredients

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup pesto
• 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the orzo according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
2. While the orzo cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp, garlic, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until the shrimp are pink and opaque.
3. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add the cooked orzo, pesto, and lemon juice, stirring to combine and heat through.
4. Return the shrimp to the skillet, add the toasted pine nuts and Parmesan cheese, and gently toss everything together until well mixed and heated through.

The toasted pine nuts add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that perfectly complements the tender shrimp and creamy orzo, making every bite a harmonious blend of textures and tastes.

Tip: For an extra burst of freshness, garnish with chopped basil or a sprinkle of lemon zest before serving.

Conclusion

We hope this roundup of 20 delicious shrimp and orzo recipes inspires your next meal, whether it’s a cozy dinner or a festive gathering. Each dish promises flavor and ease, perfect for home cooks. Don’t forget to try your favorites, share your thoughts in the comments, and pin this article on Pinterest for your next culinary adventure. Happy cooking!