Shrimp Scampi With Orzo

Ingredients

• 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil (divided)
• 1 tbsp lemon zest (from 1 lemon)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (from 1 lemon)
• 0.5 tsp red-pepper flakes
• 1 tsp Kosher salt (Diamond Crystal preferred; divided)
• 0.25 tsp black pepper (plus more to taste)
• 4 garlic cloves (minced, divided)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 cup orzo
• 0.33 cup dry white wine
• 2 cup boiling water (may substitute with seafood or chicken stock)
• 3 tbsp parsley (finely chopped)

Steps

1. 1

   In a medium bowl, stir together the shrimp, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, lemon zest, red-pepper flakes, ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon pepper, and half of the minced garlic. Set aside to marinate for at least 10 minutes, or up to 1 hour in advance.

2. 2

   Place a medium skillet over medium heat and add the butter, the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and the remaining minced garlic. When the butter starts to bubble, add the orzo and ½ teaspoon salt.

3. 3

   Cook the orzo, stirring often, until the grains are toasted and fragrant, about 2 minutes. Adjust the heat as necessary to ensure the garlic does not burn.

4. 4

   Carefully pour in the white wine—it will bubble vigorously—and stir until the liquid is fully absorbed, about 1 minute.

5. 5

   Stir in the boiling water (or stock), reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and cook until the orzo is al dente, about 12 minutes.

6. 6

   Arrange the marinated shrimp in a snug, even layer on top of the cooked orzo. Cover the skillet and cook until all the shrimp are pink and opaque throughout, about 2 to 4 minutes.

7. 7

   Remove the skillet from the heat and let it sit, still covered, for 2 minutes to finish steaming.

8. 8

   Sprinkle the dish with finely chopped parsley and lemon juice. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste, and serve immediately.

Notes

For a richer flavor, use seafood stock or chicken stock instead of water. This dish pairs excellently with a Caesar salad, steamed broccoli, or fresh arugula.

Nutrition per serving

• main
• seafood
• shrimp
• pasta
• one-pan
• weeknight-dinner
• quick