Name: Quick & Easy Shrimp Scampi Orzo (Instant Pot)
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: US
Ingredients: 1 pound medium raw shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil; 1 shallot, peeled and chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon lemon zest; 1 pinch red pepper flakes; Salt and ground black pepper to taste; 1/2 lemon, juiced; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 1/2 cups orzo; 2 cups shrimp stock; 1/4 cup dry white wine; 1 tablespoon coarsely chopped parsley, or to taste; 4 lemon wedges

Savor the simplicity of this one-pot wonder! Tender shrimp and perfectly cooked orzo pasta intertwine in a symphony of bright, lemony flavors, all achieved effortlessly in your Instant Pot®. A guaranteed crowd-pleaser that's ready in under an hour.

Follow The Directions

01

Step

In a bowl, gently toss the shrimp with salt and pepper to taste, then set aside. (5 minutes)

02

Step

Select the Saute function on your Instant Pot®. Add olive oil. Once heated, add the shallot and saute for about 1 1/2 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic, lemon zest, and red pepper flakes. Continue cooking until fragrant, around 1 1/2 minutes. Remove from heat and add the shallot mixture to the shrimp. Stir in the lemon juice, cover, and refrigerate until ready to use. (10 minutes)

03

Step

Clean the Instant Pot's inner pot. Return it to the Instant Pot® and again select the Saute function. Melt the butter, then add the orzo. Stir continuously for about 1 1/2 minutes until the orzo is lightly toasted and coated in butter. Pour in the shrimp stock and white wine, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil. (10 minutes)

04

Step

Secure the Instant Pot® lid, ensuring the valve is set to sealing. Select the high-pressure cooking function and set the timer for 4 minutes. Allow 10-15 minutes for the pressure to build inside. (15 minutes)

05

Step

Once the timer has elapsed, carefully perform a quick pressure release, following the manufacturer's instructions. (5 minutes)

06

Step

Open the lid. Gently arrange the marinated shrimp mixture in a single layer over the orzo. (2 minutes)

07

Step

Close and lock the lid again. Select the high-pressure function and set the timer for 1 minute. Allow 5-10 minutes for the pressure to build. (7 minutes)

08

Step

Carefully perform a quick pressure release. Once all pressure is released, remove the lid and garnish the dish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges. Serve immediately. (5 minutes)

For a richer flavor, consider using homemade shrimp stock. You can make this from shrimp shells and vegetable scraps.
If you don't have white wine, you can substitute with additional shrimp stock or chicken broth.
Be careful not to overcook the shrimp. They should be pink and opaque. The residual heat will continue to cook them after the pressure is released.
For a spicier dish, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper.