All the flavors of this lemon asparagus orzo with shrimp pair perfectly. The asparagus is earthy, the lemon is bright, and the shrimp is sweet. Serve it as a simple elegant meal, or bring a big bowl to share at cookout!
Author: Alison's Allspcie
Recipe type: Entree
Cuisine: American
Serves: 2 dinner portions, or 4 sides
Ingredients
½ lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
½ tsp salt, divided
4-5 oz whole wheat orzo pasta
2 TBS butter
½ bunch of asparagus, trimmed and diced (1½-2 cups)
2 garlic cloves, minced
¼ tsp black pepper
Pinch red pepper flake
1 TBS minced fresh parsley
1 small lemon, juiced
Instructions
Soak shrimp in ¼ tsp salt to brine for 15-30 minutes. Drain (do not rinse) and pat dry with a paper towel.
Meanwhile cook pasta according to package directions. Drain well.
Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add shrimp and cook about 1 minute, or until just staring to turn opaque. Flip the shrimp and mix in asparagus and garlic. Cover and cook 1-2 more minutes, or until shrimp is fully cooked. (Don't over cook or the shrimp will turn rubbery!)
Toss orzo with shrimp mixture and stir in remaining ¼ tsp salt, black pepper, red pepper flake, minced parsley, and juice of 1 lemon.
Serve hot or cold.
Recipe by Alison's Allspice at https://www.alisonsallspice.com/lemon-asparagus-orzo-with-shrimp/