There is something truly magical about the combination of tender shrimp, light orzo pasta, and a bright, flavorful sauce. The Orzo Pasta with Shrimp in Lemon-Basil Tomato Sauce Recipe brings together fresh ingredients like juicy cherry tomatoes, fragrant basil, and zesty lemon to create a dish that feels both comforting and effortlessly elegant. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or entertaining friends, this recipe offers a wonderful blend of textures and vibrant tastes that will make your taste buds dance with joy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the quality of each ingredient. Every element plays a crucial role in delivering vibrant flavors, textures, and that irresistible aroma throughout the kitchen.
- Large shrimp (1 lb): Provides a sweet, succulent seafood base that cooks quickly for a tender bite.
- Olive oil: Adds richness and helps sauté ingredients with a Mediterranean flair.
- Butter: Gives the shrimp a silky finish and enhances the overall depth of flavor.
- Garlic (3 cloves): Infuses the dish with a warm, aromatic punch.
- Red pepper flakes (1 tsp, optional): Introduces a gentle heat that can be adjusted to your liking.
- Lemon juice (juice of 1 lemon): Brings bright citrus notes that lift all the ingredients.
- Orzo pasta (1 ½ cups): Its tiny, rice-like shape soaks up sauce beautifully and adds a lovely texture.
- Chicken or vegetable broth (4 cups): Used to cook the orzo, adding subtle savory depth.
- Cherry tomatoes (1 cup): Bursting with sweetness and color to brighten the dish.
- Fresh basil (½ cup): Adds herbal freshness and a hint of peppery bite.
- Lemon zest (1 tablespoon): Intensifies the lemon flavor for a wonderful aromatic lift.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (½ cup, optional): Offers a luscious, savory finish that ties everything together.
- Fresh parsley (optional): Adds a burst of green and a subtle herbal note for garnish.
- Salt and pepper: To taste, for perfect seasoning balance.
How to Make Orzo Pasta with Shrimp in Lemon-Basil Tomato Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Orzo
Start by boiling the broth to infuse the orzo with a richer flavor beyond plain water. Cook the orzo until it’s just tender but still has a slight bite, about 8 to 10 minutes. Don’t forget to save half a cup of that flavorful broth before draining, as it will make your sauce irresistibly saucy and luscious.
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp
In a hot pan with olive oil and butter, sauté the shrimp to lock in their natural sweetness and ensure they remain juicy and tender. Just as the shrimp turn pink and opaque, add minced garlic and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. Finish this step by squeezing fresh lemon juice over the shrimp, which brings a bright, refreshing contrast to their richness.
Step 3: Make the Sauce and Combine
Use the same skillet to simmer cherry tomatoes in olive oil until they begin to soften and release their juices, creating the base of your sauce. Add the cooked orzo, along with that reserved broth, to marry all the flavors. Stir in fresh basil, lemon zest, and Parmesan cheese so they melt into the pasta, creating a beautifully coated, fragrant, and creamy sauce.
Step 4: Final Assembly
Gently fold the cooked shrimp back into your skillet, allowing the orzo and tomatoes to envelop the shrimp with their vibrant sauce. Taste and make any final adjustments with salt, pepper, or an extra splash of lemon juice to make the flavors sing just the way you like them.
Step 5: Serve
Dish out this delightful creation in warm bowls or on plates with extra fresh basil, parsley, and Parmesan on top if desired. It’s a dish that looks as beautiful as it tastes—colorful, inviting, and downright delicious.
How to Serve Orzo Pasta with Shrimp in Lemon-Basil Tomato Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like basil or parsley not only add vibrant green color but also enhance the fresh flavor profile of the dish. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese up top adds a savory, cheesy note that pairs wonderfully with the shrimp and lemon.
Side Dishes
This recipe shines on its own but pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables to balance the meal with some crunch and earthiness. A crusty loaf of bread is also perfect to soak up every last bit of that luscious tomato sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve in shallow bowls to showcase the colorful shrimp and tomato pieces, or even in individual ramekins for a charming dinner party presentation. For an elegant twist, add a lemon wedge on the side and drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil just before serving.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully overnight but be sure to keep it chilled for freshness and food safety.
Freezing
Freezing this dish is possible, though the texture of the shrimp and orzo may change slightly. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to revive the sauce’s creaminess. Avoid overheating as shrimp can become tough, so warm just until everything is heated through.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to get a nice sear and avoid excess moisture in the pan.
What if I’m allergic to shellfish?
You can swap out shrimp for sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for a vegetarian-friendly version that’s just as satisfying and full of flavor.
Is it okay to use pasta water instead of broth for the orzo?
While pasta water can work in a pinch, cooking orzo in broth adds an extra layer of savory flavor that really enhances the finished dish.
Can I make this recipe spicy?
Definitely! Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of your favorite hot sauce to kick up the heat to your preference.
What wine pairs best with this dish?
A crisp, chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio matches the citrus notes and seafood beautifully, balancing the bright and savory flavors perfectly.
Final Thoughts
Embracing fresh ingredients and straightforward cooking techniques, the Orzo Pasta with Shrimp in Lemon-Basil Tomato Sauce Recipe is a sure winner for anyone craving a vibrant, wholesome meal. It’s quick enough for a weeknight but special enough to impress guests, bursting with the best flavors of spring and summer. Give it a try, share it with loved ones, and watch it become a favorite in your culinary repertoire!
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Orzo Pasta with Shrimp in Lemon-Basil Tomato Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Description
This Orzo Pasta with Shrimp recipe is a delicious and vibrant dish combining tender shrimp sautéed with garlic and a touch of heat, served atop perfectly cooked orzo pasta tossed with cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, lemon zest, and Parmesan cheese. The blend of citrus brightness, savory flavors, and creamy cheese creates a satisfying meal perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (about 16–20 shrimp)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon
For the Orzo Pasta:
- 1 ½ cups orzo pasta
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth (or water if preferred)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt, to taste
For the Sauce & Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest (from 1 lemon)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Orzo: In a large pot, bring the chicken or vegetable broth to a boil. Add a pinch of salt and the orzo pasta. Cook the orzo for about 8-10 minutes, or until al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Once cooked, drain the orzo, reserving about ½ cup of the broth to add back later for flavor, and set aside.
- Sauté the Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink, opaque, and cooked through. Add minced garlic, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir and cook for another 30 seconds until the garlic is fragrant. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the shrimp, then remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Sauce & Combine: In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and heat over medium. Add halved cherry tomatoes and cook for about 2 minutes until they begin to soften. Add the cooked orzo and reserved broth to the skillet, stirring to combine and heat through. Toss in fresh basil, lemon zest, and grated Parmesan cheese (if using), mixing until everything is well coated and the cheese begins to melt.
- Final Assembly: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet with the orzo and tomatoes. Gently toss to evenly distribute and warm the shrimp. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or extra lemon juice if desired.
- Serve: Serve the orzo pasta with shrimp in bowls or on plates, garnished with fresh basil, parsley, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a splash of white wine to the shrimp while cooking.
- For a creamy version, stir in a couple of tablespoons of heavy cream or mascarpone cheese before adding shrimp back.
- Vegetarian variation: Replace shrimp with sautéed vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, and bell peppers.
- To make it spicy, increase red pepper flakes or add hot sauce to the sauce.
- Reserve some cooking broth from the orzo to enhance flavor and moisture in the finished dish.
