One Skillet Lemon Pepper Shrimp and Orzo

When I first tried this One Skillet Lemon Pepper Shrimp and Orzo, it instantly transported me to the sunny shores of the Greek islands, where the air smells of lemon groves and sea breeze. 

The dish beautifully reflects the Mediterranean way of cooking fresh, light, and full of natural flavors. With its zesty lemon, tender shrimp, and creamy orzo, it feels like a little vacation on a plate. 

Each bite captures the coastal charm of southern Greece, especially the Peloponnese region, where seafood and citrus reign supreme.

Ingredients

Here are the simple, fresh ingredients you’ll need to create this vibrant dish.

• 2 tablespoons butter, divided – Using butter adds a rich, creamy flavor that perfectly complements the lemon and garlic.
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided – Combining olive oil with butter helps prevent the butter from browning too quickly while adding its own fruity notes.
• 1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined – For the best results, buy frozen raw shrimp and thaw it yourself. This ensures it’s fresh and hasn’t been sitting out.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt, divided – Essential for seasoning every layer of the dish, from the shrimp to the orzo.
• 1 teaspoon cracked black pepper, divided – Freshly cracked pepper provides a much more potent, zesty bite than pre-ground.
• 1/2 cup finely chopped shallots – Shallots have a delicate, sweet flavor that won’t overpower the other ingredients like a regular onion might.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced – Use fresh garlic for that irreplaceable aromatic punch. Don’t be shy; add more if you’re a garlic lover.
• 1 1/4 cups dry orzo pasta – This small, rice-shaped pasta is perfect for one-skillet meals as it cooks quickly and absorbs all the surrounding flavors.
• 3 cups lower-sodium chicken or vegetable broth – Using a low-sodium broth allows you to control the final saltiness of the dish.
• 3 cups fresh baby spinach – Always use fresh spinach; frozen spinach releases too much water and will make the dish soupy.
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon – This is the star of the show. The zest provides aromatic oils, while the juice adds a bright, acidic kick.
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley – Added at the end for a pop of color and a fresh, clean finish.

Note: This recipe yields several servings, making it a perfect meal for a small family or for having delicious leftovers.

Variations

While this recipe is delightful as is, you can easily tweak it to fit your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Dairy-Free: To make this dish dairy-free, simply substitute the butter with an equal amount of olive oil or your favorite plant-based butter. The flavor will be just as delicious.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free orzo or substitute it with an equal amount of quinoa or a small-cut gluten-free pasta. Be sure to adjust the cooking time and liquid according to the package directions.
• Flavor-Enhancing Add-Ins: A pinch of red pepper flakes will add a gentle heat. You could also stir in some capers for a briny kick or some crumbled feta cheese at the end for a salty, creamy element.

Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Equipment You Need

• Large skillet or sauté pan: A wide pan with a lid is essential for cooking everything together without overcrowding the ingredients.
• Cutting board and sharp knife: Necessary for chopping the shallots, garlic, and parsley efficiently.
• Zester or microplane: The best tool for getting fine lemon zest without any of the bitter white pith.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate measurements to ensure the dish turns out perfectly every time.

How to Make One Skillet Lemon Pepper Shrimp and Orzo?

This dish comes together in just a few simple stages, all in one pan. The process starts by quickly cooking the shrimp, then building a flavorful base for the orzo, and finally bringing it all together for a creamy, restaurant-quality meal. The key is to toast the orzo briefly before adding the liquid, which gives it a lovely nutty flavor and helps it cook evenly.

Step 1: Cook the Shrimp

First, pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel and season them with half of the salt and pepper. Heat one tablespoon of butter and one tablespoon of olive oil in your large skillet over medium heat. Arrange the shrimp in a single layer and cook for about 3 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for just one more minute until they are pink and opaque. Transfer the cooked shrimp to a plate and set them aside.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of butter and olive oil. Add the chopped shallots and minced garlic and cook for 2-3 minutes until they become soft and fragrant. Next, add the dry orzo to the pan. Stir it constantly for about a minute to toast it lightly in the butter and oil. This step enhances the pasta’s flavor.

Step 3: Cook the Orzo

Pour in the broth and add the remaining salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the skillet. Let it cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the orzo is al dente and has absorbed most of the liquid. You may need to stir it once or twice to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Finish and Serve

During the last few minutes of cooking, stir in the fresh spinach until it has just wilted. Uncover the skillet and stir in the fresh lemon zest and juice. Return the cooked shrimp to the pan and stir everything together to combine. Garnish your dish with fresh parsley before serving.

🇬🇷 Greece: Coastal Flavors of the Mediterranean

This One Skillet Lemon Pepper Shrimp and Orzo captures the sunny essence of Greece’s coastal cuisine, where seafood meets the brightness of local citrus. 

Along the Peloponnese and Aegean islands, shrimp dishes like this are a seaside favorite, reflecting the region’s love for simple, fresh ingredients. 

The combination of lemon, olive oil, and herbs showcases the heart of Mediterranean cooking, emphasizing balance, purity, and the connection between land and sea that defines Greek gastronomy.

Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better

After making this recipe a few times, I’ve discovered a couple of small things that make a big difference.

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: When cooking the shrimp, I make sure to cook them in a single layer. If my skillet isn’t big enough, I cook them in two batches. This ensures they get a nice sear instead of just steaming.
• Control the lemon: I always add the lemon juice and zest at the very end, after turning off the heat. Cooking lemon juice for too long can make it taste bitter, so adding it last keeps the flavor bright and fresh.
• Watch the orzo: Orzo can go from perfectly cooked to mushy pretty quickly. I start checking it around the 10-minute mark to ensure it stays al dente. If the liquid absorbs too fast, I add a small splash of broth or water.

How to Serve One Skillet Lemon Pepper Shrimp and Orzo

In Greece, dishes like this are often enjoyed near the sea, paired with crusty bread and a chilled glass of white wine. Serve this lemony shrimp and orzo in shallow bowls, sprinkled with fresh parsley and cracked pepper for a true Mediterranean experience. It’s the kind of meal you’d find at a seaside taverna simple yet bursting with freshness, celebrating the Greek love for seafood and sunshine.

Make Ahead and Storage

This recipe is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers are still delicious and perfect for a quick lunch.

Make Ahead: To save time, you can chop the shallots, mince the garlic, and chop the parsley ahead of time. Store them in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to a day.

Storing: Allow any leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. You can store the dish in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing: Freezing is not recommended for this recipe, as the texture of the orzo and shrimp can become compromised upon thawing and reheating.

Reheating: For the best results, reheat the dish in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of broth or water to help rehydrate the orzo. You can also microwave individual portions, stirring every 30 seconds until warmed through.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

Here are just a few reasons why this vibrant and easy dish is sure to become a new favorite.

• Minimal Cleanup: The entire meal comes together in just one skillet, which means you spend less time washing dishes and more time enjoying your dinner. It’s the ultimate weeknight convenience.
• Ready in 35 Minutes: This recipe is perfect for busy evenings when you want something delicious and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. From start to finish, it’s incredibly fast.
• Bright and Fresh Flavors: The combination of zesty lemon, pungent garlic, and fresh herbs creates a light yet deeply flavorful sauce that makes this dish feel special. It’s a taste of sunshine in a bowl.
• Elegant Yet Easy: While simple enough for a Tuesday night, this dish is also impressive enough to serve to guests. The beautiful colors and sophisticated flavors make it seem like you put in a lot of effort.