Shrimp Scampi with Orzo

Shrimp Scampi with Orzo

Photo Credit: The New York Times

I don't remember if I spotted this recipe on The New York Times website or if another blogger shared it, but either way, it's a winner! It's so quick and easy and has become a family favorite. I serve it with crusty French bread and a Caesar salad, usually twice a month.

INGREDIENTS

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon zest, plus 1 tablespoon juice (from 1 lemon)
½ teaspoon red-pepper flakes (optional)
Kosher salt and black pepper
4 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 cup orzo
⅓ cup dry white wine
2 cups boiling water, seafood stock or chicken stock (I use 1 1/2 cups of chicken broth)
3 tablespoons finely chopped parsley

PREPARATION

In a medium bowl, stir together shrimp, 1 tablespoon olive oil, lemon zest, red-pepper flakes, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon pepper and half the garlic. Set aside to marinate. (This step can be done up to 1 hour in advance.)

Add butter, remaining olive oil and remaining garlic to a medium skillet set over medium heat. When the butter starts to bubble, add the orzo and 1/2 teaspoon salt and cook, stirring often, until the orzo is toasted, about 2 minutes, adjusting the heat as necessary to prevent the garlic from burning. Carefully add the wine — it will bubble — and stir until absorbed, about 1 minute. Stir in water/broth, reduce heat to low, cover, and cook until orzo is al dente, about 12 minutes.

Add the shrimp in a snug, even layer on top of the orzo, cover, and cook until all the shrimp is pink and cooked through, 2 to 4 minutes. Remove from heat and let sit, covered, 2 minutes.

Sprinkle with parsley and lemon juice, season with salt and pepper, and serve immediately.

Serves 4

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