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Golden shrimp and orzo in a cast-iron skillet with asparagus and cherry tomatoes, drizzled with lemon butter sauce, garnished with parsley and lemon wedges on a slate background

One-Pan Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Asparagus & Orzo

Sophia
This 30-minute wonder combines juicy shrimp, bright lemon, and garlicky buttery flavors with hearty orzo and seasonal veggies. Perfect for busy nights, it’s a complete meal cooked in one skillet—minimal cleanup, maximum flavor!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine Mediterranean-Inspired
Servings 2 People
Calories 480 kcal

Equipment

  • 12 inch oven-safe skillet
  • Zester
  • Tongs

Ingredients
  

For the Dish:

  • 12 oz large shrimp peeled and deveined
  • 1 cup orzo (or cauliflower rice for low-carb)
  • 1 bunch asparagus trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 3 garlic cloves minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 lemon (zest + 3 tbsp juice)
  • ¼ cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes  (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For Garnish:

  • ¼ cup fresh parsley chopped
  • Grated Parmesan (optional)
  • Lemon wedges

Instructions
 

Cook the Shrimp:

  • Pat shrimp dry and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
  • Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in the skillet over medium-high. Sear shrimp for 1–2 minutes per side until pink. Transfer to a plate.

Toast the Orzo:

  • Add remaining olive oil to the skillet. Sauté garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Stir in orzo and toast for 2 minutes. Deglaze with white wine, scraping up browned bits.

Simmer with Veggies:

  • Add 2 cups water (or broth), lemon zest, and juice. Bring to a boil.
  • Reduce heat to medium-low. Add asparagus and tomatoes. Cover and simmer for 10–12 minutes until orzo is al dente and liquid is absorbed.

Finish & Serve:

  • Stir in butter until melted. Return shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat.
  • Garnish with parsley, Parmesan, and lemon wedges.
Keyword Gluten-Free Option, High-Protein, Low-Carb Option