Quick weeknight
One-Pan Lemon Garlic Shrimp Orzo with Spinach and Feta
Creamy toasted orzo simmered risotto-style with sweet shrimp, wilted spinach, and a bright hit of lemon and briny feta : dinner in a single skillet.
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 piece shallot, diced
- 4 clove garlic, minced
- 1,5 cup orzo pasta
- 0,5 cup dry white wine
- 3 cup chicken stock, warm
- 1 piece lemon, zested and juiced
- 4 cup baby spinach
- 0,75 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 3 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- 0,25 tsp red pepper flakes
Instructions
- 1
Pat 1 lb (450 g) shrimp very dry and season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- 2
Heat 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil in a deep skillet over medium-high until shimmering, then sear the shrimp 60 seconds per side until just pink and curled; remove to a plate.
- 3
Lower the heat to medium, add 1 tbsp butter and the diced shallot, and sweat for 2 minutes until translucent.
- 4
Add 4 minced garlic cloves and stir for 30 seconds until fragrant but not coloured.
- 5
Pour in 1.5 cups orzo (280 g) and toast for 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the grains smell nutty and turn pale gold.
- 6
Deglaze with 1/2 cup dry white wine, scraping the pan, and simmer until nearly evaporated.
- 7
Add 3 cups warm chicken stock and the lemon zest; simmer uncovered for 9-11 minutes, stirring often, until the orzo is al dente and the sauce is creamy.
- 8
Fold in 4 cups baby spinach and let it wilt for 1 minute, then return the shrimp to the pan with any resting juices.
- 9
Off the heat, stir in the lemon juice, chopped dill, and half the feta; taste and adjust salt.
- 10
Serve immediately, showered with the remaining feta, extra dill, and a drizzle of olive oil.
Chef's tip
Toasting the orzo before adding liquid is the secret : those nutty golden grains hold their bite and release just enough starch to create a silky, self-saucing finish.
Suggested pairing
Pour a crisp, mineral Sauvignon Blanc and finish with fresh berries and honeyed yogurt for dessert.
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