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    Shrimp Orzo Primavera with Zesty Lemon and Basil

    clock-icon25 minutes
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    Pixicook editorial team

    A light and flavorful pasta dish featuring sautéed shrimp, orzo, and fresh vegetables, finished with lemon zest and basil.

    Ingredients for Shrimp Orzo Primavera with Zesty Lemon and Basil

    units in
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    units in
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    serves
    4 peoplechevron
    serves
    4 peoplechevron

    Shrimp, Extra-large, peeled, deveined, tails off

    0 lb

    Substitute chevron-down

    Salt

    teaspoons

    Substitute chevron-down

    Pepper

    teaspoons

    Substitute chevron-down

    Olive Oil, Extra-Virgin

    tablespoons

    Substitute chevron-down

    Shallots, minced

    each

    Garlic, minced

    cloves

    Substitute chevron-down

    Red Pepper Flakes

    teaspoons

    Water

    cups

    Substitute chevron-down

    Orzo

    cups

    Zucchini, quartered lengthwise, sliced crosswise 1/4 inch thick

    0 oz

    Peas, Frozen, Thawed

    cups

    Pecorino Romano Cheese, grated

    0 oz

    Lemon Zest, grated

    teaspoons

    Basil, Fresh, chopped

    cups

    How to Make Shrimp Orzo Primavera with Zesty Lemon and Basil

    1. Prep Shrimp

    Pat shrimp dry with paper towels. Toss with ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon pepper in a bowl. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a 12-inch nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Sauté shrimp, stirring occasionally, until edges begin to pinken, about 2 minutes. Remove shrimp to a bowl.

    2. Aromatics

    In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons oil. Sauté shallot, garlic, and red pepper flakes until fragrant, about 1 minute.

    3. Orzo & Veggies

    Add water, orzo, zucchini, the remaining ¾ teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon pepper. Boil, then cover and simmer over medium heat until orzo is al dente and water is nearly absorbed, 6-9 minutes.

    4. Combine & Cook

    Off heat, stir in peas, Pecorino, and lemon zest. Place shrimp atop orzo, press down slightly. Cook over medium heat until bubbling, about 1 minute. Cover and cook until shrimp are done, 3 minutes more.

    5. Finish & Serve

    Garnish with basil, drizzle with olive oil, and serve with additional Pecorino.

    Variations

    Seasonal Variations

    Summer Orzo Primavera

    Protein Swaps

    Chicken Orzo Primavera

    Cuisine-Inspired Variants

    Asian-Style Orzo

    Vegetable Variants

    Introduce asparagus, sugar snap peas, or artichoke hearts to the mix of primavera vegetables for a change in flavor and texture. Roasted red peppers could also add a sweet and smoky element.

    Dietary Adjustments

    Gluten-Free Orzo Primavera

    Pitfalls and tips

    Quality of Ingredients

    Use fresh, wild-caught shrimp, fresh basil, and organic vegetables to significantly impact the flavor of the dish.

    Lemon Zest and Juice

    Use fresh zest and juice for brightness, zest only the outer yellow skin, not the white pith.

    Fresh Herbs

    Use fresh basil added at the end of cooking for a more vibrant flavor and aroma.

    Heat Management

    Keep the pan at medium-high heat when cooking shrimp to get a good sear without overcooking.

    Shrimp Prep

    Clean and devein the shrimp, pat dry, and marinate with lemon zest, olive oil, and salt to infuse flavor.


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