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A close-up shot of a bowl of garlic shrimp and spinach orzo with fresh herbs.

Classic Garlic Shrimp and Spinach Orzo

This classic garlic shrimp and spinach orzo is a quick and satisfying meal, perfect for a weeknight dinner. Succulent shrimp, fresh spinach, and tender orzo are tossed in a flavorful garlic and lemon sauce.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 12-16 count Large raw shrimp peeled & deveined
  • 1 cup Orzo pasta dry
  • 3 cups Fresh spinach loosely packed
  • 3 count Garlic cloves minced
  • 2 Tbsp Olive oil
  • ¼ cup Dry white wine (or low-sodium chicken broth)
  • ½ count Lemon juiced + zest
  • ½ tsp Smoked paprika
  • ¼ tsp Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt & freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 2 Tbsp Fresh parsley chopped
  • ¼ cup Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • 1 Tbsp Butter (optional)

Equipment

  • Pot
  • Large skillet

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. Bring salted water to a boil, then cook the orzo for 7-8 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water, then set aside.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and stir for 30 seconds until golden, being careful not to burn it.

Notes

For extra flavor, reserve some of the starchy pasta water to add to the sauce if it becomes too thick. Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes to your spice preference. If omitting wine, use an equal amount of low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth.