One Pot Lemon Pepper Shrimp and Orzo

Ingredients

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
• 1 teaspoon cracked black pepper
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1/4 cup dry white wine
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon lemon herb seasoning
• 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Lemon wedges
• Extra cracked black pepper

Instructions

1. In a bowl, combine the shrimp with olive oil, lemon zest and juice, cracked black pepper, minced garlic, and salt. Toss well to coat, then let marinate for about 15 minutes.
2. In a large skillet or pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the marinated shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink. Remove the shrimp from the pot and set aside.
3. Add the orzo to the same pot and toast it for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until golden and fragrant.
4. Pour in the white wine, stirring to deglaze the pot and let it simmer until the liquid has mostly evaporated.
5. Gradually add the chicken broth and lemon herb seasoning, then bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook the orzo for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
6. Return the shrimp to the pot and mix well to combine with the orzo. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
7. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley, extra cracked black pepper, and lemon wedges. Serve warm.