Bright & Savory Lemon-White Wine Shrimp and Orzo You’ll Love

Fresh, light, and bursting with flavor, this Lemon-White Wine Shrimp and Orzo is the perfect dish to make for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Shrimp is quickly sautéed in a zesty lemon-white wine sauce, then tossed with tender orzo pasta for a delicious combination that feels indulgent yet light. It’s a dish that brings bright, refreshing flavors to the table with minimal effort, making it ideal for anyone looking for a quick and satisfying seafood meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Succulent Shrimp – The shrimp is perfectly cooked, tender, and juicy.
Zesty & Refreshing – Lemon and white wine create a vibrant, fresh flavor profile.
Light & Satisfying – The orzo balances the dish without making it heavy.
Quick & Easy – Ready in about 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for a hassle-free dinner.

Ingredients

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 1 cup dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc)
• 1 lemon, zest and juice
• ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp butter (optional, for extra richness)

Instructions

Cook the Orzo:

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the orzo according to the package instructions, about 8–10 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Shrimp:

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and are just cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce:

In the same skillet, add the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the white wine and bring to a simmer, letting it reduce for 3–4 minutes. Add the lemon juice and zest, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), and stir to combine. Let the sauce cook for another 2 minutes.

Combine & Toss:

Add the cooked orzo to the skillet with the sauce, stirring to coat the pasta evenly. Return the shrimp to the skillet, tossing everything together until the shrimp and pasta are well mixed and heated through.

Finish & Serve:

Stir in the butter (if using) for extra richness, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon before serving.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 340
• Carbs: 36g
• Fat: 12g
• Protein: 22g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 3g

Tips for Success

Balance the Lemon: For a perfect balance of tart and fresh, be sure to use both lemon juice and zest.
Cook Shrimp Just Right: Don’t overcook the shrimp; they should be pink and slightly firm to the bite.
Add More Veggies: If you want to boost the nutrition, consider adding spinach, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes.
Wine Substitute: If you prefer not to use wine, chicken broth or vegetable broth can be a great alternative for a non-alcoholic version.

Why This Recipe Works

This dish offers the rich, savory flavor of shrimp without feeling overly heavy. The combination of white wine, garlic, and lemon brings out the shrimp’s natural sweetness, while the orzo adds texture and substance to the meal. It’s the perfect balance of flavors that feels both indulgent and fresh.

This Lemon-White Wine Shrimp and Orzo is everything you want in a weeknight dinner—light, flavorful, and quick. The zesty lemon and white wine sauce, combined with the tender shrimp and soft orzo, creates a dish that’s both satisfying and refreshing. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking to try something new, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your rotation.