If you’re on the lookout for a delicious and hassle-free dinner option, look no further than shrimp orzo. This delightful dish combines tender shrimp and flavorful orzo pasta in a quick, one-pan meal that is ready in just 30 minutes. Not only is it a time-saver, but it’s also packed with vibrant flavors and creamy textures that are sure to impress your family or guests.
Imagine a satisfying dinner that requires minimal cleanup while still delivering on taste and elegance. This shrimp and orzo dish allows for easy customization with fresh vegetables or herbs, making it a versatile option for any night of the week. Whether you’re a busy professional or a home cook looking to streamline your dinner routine, shrimp orzo could be your new go-to recipe.
Ingredients for Shrimp Orzo (30-Minute, One-Pan Meal):
To create a delightful Shrimp Orzo that is both quick and easy, gather the following ingredients:
– 1 lb raw shrimp (large, peeled, and deveined – 16 or 20 count)
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning (thyme, basil, oregano, rosemary)
– ¼ teaspoon salt
– ¼ teaspoon black pepper
– 5 cloves garlic (minced)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the orzo and sauce:
– ⅓ cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped)
– 1 cup orzo (uncooked)
– 2 cups chicken stock
– ¼ teaspoon salt
– 14 oz artichoke hearts (drained and chopped, about 1 cup)
– 4 oz fresh spinach
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Additional salt and pepper to taste
This one-pan meal is not only a time-saver, but it also delivers a burst of flavors that will delight your taste buds. Pair these ingredients together, and you’ll have a satisfying dish on the table in just 30 minutes!
How to Prepare Shrimp Orzo (30-Minute, One-Pan Meal):
This delicious Shrimp Orzo (30-Minute, One-Pan Meal) recipe is a breeze to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Begin by seasoning 1 lb of large, peeled, and deveined shrimp with smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. In a large pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat, then add minced garlic to sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Next, toss in the seasoned shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes until they turn pink. Remove the shrimp and set aside.
In the same pan, incorporate ⅓ cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes and 1 cup of uncooked orzo. Stir together and pour in 2 cups of chicken stock, adding an extra ¼ teaspoon of salt. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 10 minutes until the orzo is tender. Finally, fold in 14 oz of chopped artichoke hearts, 4 oz of fresh spinach, and 1 cup of heavy cream. Return the shrimp to the pan, mix well, and enjoy this creamy one-pan dish! For a delightful contrast, consider pairing your Shrimp Orzo with a crisp salad like our Shrimp Avocado Salad.
Nutritional Benefits of This One-Pan Meal:
Shrimp orzo (30-minute, one-pan meal) is not only a delight for the palate but also a powerhouse of nutrients. Shrimp provides high-quality protein, essential for muscle growth and repair, while being low in calories, making it an excellent option for those watching their intake. The orzo pasta adds a source of carbohydrates for energy, perfect for a quick meal. Combined with fresh vegetables, this dish delivers fiber, vitamins, and minerals that support overall health.
Moreover, adding a colorful mix of veggies enhances the meal’s nutritional profile, providing antioxidants that combat inflammation. This meal can also be a healthier alternative to traditional pasta dishes. For those looking for more shrimp recipes, check out the Shrimp Avocado Salad for a refreshing twist. For expert cooking tips and variations, you can visit this detailed guide. Enjoy the benefits of a dish that is quick, nutritious, and satisfying!
Cooking Tips for Perfect Shrimp Orzo (30-Minute, One-Pan Meal):
To ensure your Shrimp Orzo (30-Minute, One-Pan Meal) is both tasty and satisfying, follow these simple yet effective tips. First, choose fresh or properly thawed shrimp to guarantee a tender texture. When sautéing, ensure you don’t overcrowd the pan; this keeps the shrimp juicy and allows them to cook evenly. Additionally, consider seasoning your orzo as it cooks for enhanced flavor. Adding a splash of lemon juice or some herbs can elevate the dish significantly.
For a delightful variation, try pairing this recipe with a refreshing shrimp avocado salad. This adds a light and zesty touch perfect for complementing the creamy orzo. Finally, don’t forget to let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making your Shrimp Orzo truly unforgettable!
Serving Suggestions for Shrimp Orzo (30-Minute, One-Pan Meal):
To elevate your Shrimp Orzo (30-Minute, One-Pan Meal), consider pairing it with vibrant side dishes for a complete dining experience. A refreshing shrimp avocado salad complements the dish beautifully. The creamy avocado and zesty lime provide a delightful contrast to the savory orzo. Alternatively, serve the orzo with steamed broccoli for an extra boost of nutrients and color on the plate.
For a heartier meal, consider adding some crusty garlic bread on the side. The garlic flavor melds perfectly with the shrimp and orzo. If you’re in the mood for a bit of spice, you can try crispy shrimp tacos on the side. They are easy to make and offer a playful twist to your meal.
Regardless of your choice, these options ensure a satisfying balance of flavors, enhancing your Shrimp Orzo and making it a standout dish at any table.
Storage Tips :
To keep your Shrimp Orzo (30-Minute, One-Pan Meal) flavorful and fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing portions for future meals. Just reheat it on the stovetop with a splash of water to revive the dish’s delightful moisture and taste. Additionally, explore our Garlic Butter Shrimp Rice Bake for a complementary recipe idea.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
What ingredients do I need for Shrimp Orzo?
To create this delicious one-pan meal, you’ll need shrimp, orzo pasta, garlic, broth, and vegetables like spinach or bell peppers. Olive oil, lemon juice, and seasonings like salt and pepper add extra flavor.
How long does it take to cook Shrimp Orzo?
This Shrimp Orzo (30-Minute, One-Pan Meal) is incredibly quick to prepare. Most of your time will be spent cooking the orzo and shrimp, taking only about 30 minutes from start to finish.
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp work well! Just make sure to thaw them beforehand to ensure even cooking and the best texture.
What can I serve alongside Shrimp Orzo?
For a well-rounded meal, serve it with a light salad, such as a refreshing shrimp avocado salad. This dish complements the flavors of Shrimp Orzo perfectly.
Can I add other proteins to this dish?
Absolutely! While shrimp is the star, you can easily mix in chicken or even scallops for added variety and richness in flavor.
How do I store leftovers of this meal?
Store any leftover Shrimp Orzo in an airtight container in the fridge. It can last for about 2 to 3 days, making it great for meal prep!
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Shrimp Orzo (30-Minute, One-Pan Meal) for a Quick Delight!
- Total Time: 50
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Shrimp Orzo is a delicious 30-minute one-pan meal that’s packed with flavor from smoked paprika, sun-dried tomatoes, and creamy spinach. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Ingredients
1 lb raw shrimp large
peeled
and deveined
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
5 cloves garlic minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
⅓ cup sun-dried tomatoes chopped
1 cup orzo uncooked
2 cups chicken stock
¼ teaspoon salt
14 oz artichoke hearts drained and chopped
4 oz fresh spinach
1 cup heavy cream
salt and pepper
Instructions
- In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add shrimp to the pan and season with smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Cook until shrimp are pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove shrimp and set aside.
- In the same pan, add sun-dried tomatoes and orzo, stirring to combine.
- Pour in chicken stock and bring to a simmer. Cook orzo for about 10-12 minutes, or until al dente.
- Stir in chopped artichokes and fresh spinach, cooking until the spinach wilts.
- Add heavy cream and cooked shrimp back to the pan, stirring to combine. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve warm and enjoy your Shrimp Orzo!
Notes
For an extra kick, add red pepper flakes when cooking the shrimp. You can substitute vegetable stock for a vegetarian version.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Main Course
- Method: stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 560 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 720 mg
- Fat: 32 g
- Saturated Fat: 16 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 42 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 32 g
- Cholesterol: 210 mg
Keywords: Shrimp Orzo, one-pan meal, quick dinner, easy recipe, seafood pasta