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LEMON GARLIC SHRIMP WITH SPINACH ORZO: The Ultimate Quick Dinner
Oh, let me tell you, if you’re looking for a dinner that screams “I’ve got it all together” but only took 30 minutes to prepare, then this lemon garlic shrimp with spinach orzo is going to be your new best friend. Perfect for busy days when you’re juggling work, kids, or maybe just a commitment to binge-watching the latest show—you deserve to treat yourself without spending hours in the kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Lemon Garlic Shrimp With Spinach Orzo
You’ll find this dish checks all the boxes: it’s quick, fresh, and absolutely delicious. Shrimp are the culinary equivalent of a little black dress—quick to whip out and always a hit! Plus, with orzo and vibrant spinach, it’s basically a one-dish meal that helps you skip extra dishes. Being from the deep south where family dinners reign supreme, this is one dish I know will make the taste buds sing and your family happy. Ready to impress your loved ones? Let’s dive in!
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 3 cups fresh spinach
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Steps to Make Lemon Garlic Shrimp With Spinach Orzo
1. Cook Your Orzo
Start by boiling a pot of salted water. Once it’s bubbling like a hot spring, toss in your orzo and let it cook according to package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes. This is when you can easily daydream about your beach vacation—just don’t forget to come back and check the pasta!
2. Sauté the Garlic
While your orzo is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes. You want it to be fragrant but not burning like a toast that your partner forgot in the toaster—yikes!
3. Add the Shrimp
Now, it’s shrimp time! Toss in those lovely shrimp and let them cook for about 3-4 minutes, until they turn pink and opaque. Don’t you just love how quickly shrimp cook? Talk about instant gratification!
4. Mix in the Spinach and Lemon
Once the shrimp is ready, add in the spinach, lemon juice, and zest. Stir it all together and watch the spinach wilt—like magic! You’re almost there!
5. Combine Everything
Your orzo should be cooked by now. Drain it and combine it with the shrimp and spinach mixture. Give it a gentle toss, add salt and pepper to taste, and serve hot. Don’t forget to garnish with a sprinkle of parsley if you’re feeling fancy!
Cooking Tips for Success
- Feeling spicy? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick!
- Can’t find shrimp? Feel free to swap in some scallops or even chicken—this dish is versatile like that!
- Don’t stress about overcooking: If your shrimp goes a minute too long, just tell everyone it’s a new “crunchy” style of shrimp!
A Personal Touch
This dish has become my husband’s favorite over the years; he always knows it’s a special occasion when he smells garlic sizzling away. The kids even gobble it up, and as a mom, that’s a win! One quick dinner results in blissful family togetherness—cue the cozy vibes!
FAQs About Lemon Garlic Shrimp With Spinach Orzo
Can I substitute shrimp in this recipe?
Absolutely! If shrimp isn’t your thing, you can easily swap it for chicken, scallops, or even a plant-based protein of your choice. The lemony goodness works well with many flavors!
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers? Score! Simply place any unused shrimp or orzo in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just reheat gently on the stove or microwave and you’re good to go!
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Oh, definitely! It’s vibrant, easy to chew, and full of flavor. Even picky eaters can’t resist the natural sweetness of shrimp and the lemony zing!
What’s next?
Now that you’ve mastered this lemon garlic shrimp with spinach orzo, why not gather your family around the table and enjoy this delightful dish together? After all, it’s not just about the food—it’s about the memories you create. So, put your apron away, serve up this scrumptious meal, and soak in the compliments! Cheers to easy, delicious dinners!
Savory Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Spinach Orzo Recipe Delight
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Enjoy this Savory Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Spinach Orzo recipe perfect for quick dinners Flavorful easy to make delight your taste buds
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 400 calories
- Sugar: 1 gram
- Fat: 10 grams
- Saturated Fat: 10 grams
- Carbohydrates: 45 grams
- Fiber: 3 grams
- Protein: 30 grams
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