One-Pan Lemon Butter Shrimp (Printable)

Shrimp, orzo, and veggies cooked together for a bright, easy Mediterranean summer meal with minimal cleanup.

# Ingredient List:

→ Seafood

01 - 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails on or off

→ Orzo & Grains

02 - 1 cup orzo pasta, uncooked

→ Vegetables

03 - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
04 - 1 small zucchini, diced
05 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
06 - 2 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
07 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
08 - Zest and juice of 1 large lemon

→ Dairy

09 - 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided

→ Pantry

10 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
11 - 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
12 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
13 - 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

# How to Prepare:

01 - Pat the shrimp dry and season with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper.
02 - In a large deep skillet, heat 1 tablespoon butter and 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Arrange the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1 to 2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Transfer shrimp to a plate and reserve.
03 - Add remaining olive oil to the skillet. Sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds until aromatic. Add zucchini and cherry tomatoes, cook for 2 to 3 minutes until softened.
04 - Add orzo to the pan and toast for 1 minute, stirring frequently. Pour in broth, lemon zest, and half of the lemon juice. Bring to a gentle boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is al dente and most liquid is absorbed.
05 - Return cooked shrimp and any accumulated juices to the skillet. Add remaining 2 tablespoons butter and the rest of the lemon juice. Stir gently to combine and warm through for 1 to 2 minutes.
06 - Remove skillet from heat. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the dish, adjust seasoning to taste, and serve immediately.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • The lemon butter gives the shrimp and orzo an addictive brightness that always lifts my spirits.
  • All the vegetables soften beautifully, making each bite juicy and satisfying—a comforting meal without the hassle.
02 -
  • Lid off means your orzo won't cook properly—the steam is essential for tenderness.
  • Adding lemon juice in two stages makes the flavor lively, not overwhelming.
03 -
  • Don't skip toasting the orzo—it changes the texture in the best way.
  • Holding back some butter and lemon for the end creates a silky sauce and keeps the flavors bright.
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