Shrimp Orzo: A Simple, Creamy Delight

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This shrimp orzo is the perfect combination of simplicity and gourmet flavors. It's quick to prepare and only requires one pan, which means easy cleanup. The shrimp is seasoned with smoked paprika and garlic, and the creamy orzo cooked in chicken broth becomes rich with a blend of spinach, artichokes, and sun-dried tomatoes. Whether you’re cooking for a family or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 1 lb large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup uncooked orzo

• 2 cups chicken broth

• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped

• ½ cup canned artichoke hearts, chopped

• 2 cups fresh spinach

• ½ cup heavy cream

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes

• Salt and pepper to taste

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Season the shrimp with smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and shrimp and cook for about 2 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

3. In the same skillet, add the sun-dried tomatoes, orzo, and olive oil. Cook for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Add the chicken broth to the skillet, bring to a simmer, and cook the orzo until tender, about 10 minutes.

5. Stir in the spinach, artichokes, and heavy cream. Cook until the spinach wilts, about 2 minutes.

6. Return the shrimp to the skillet and mix gently until heated through.

7. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste, and serve hot.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 20 minutes

• Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Seafood: Substitute shrimp with other seafood like scallops, crab, or lobster.

• Vegetarian: Omit the shrimp and add extra veggies like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini.

• Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk or cashew milk instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free version.

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free orzo or substitute with long-grain rice.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce has thickened too much.

FAQs

1. Can I use pre-cooked shrimp for this recipe?

It's best to use raw shrimp for optimal texture. Pre-cooked shrimp might become rubbery when reheated.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

This dish is best served fresh, but you can prepare the components separately (shrimp, orzo, and veggies) and assemble just before serving.

3. Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, but make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the pan.

4. What can I substitute for orzo?

If you don’t have orzo, try substituting it with any small pasta, such as ditalini, or even rice.

5. Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like mushrooms, asparagus, or kale for extra flavor and nutrition.

6. How do I make this dish spicier?

Add more red pepper flakes or incorporate a small diced chili for an added kick of spice.

7. Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?

Yes, vegetable broth works well if you want to make this recipe vegetarian or vegan.

8. Can I make this dish without heavy cream?

You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, milk, or a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk for a lighter version.

9. How do I prevent the orzo from sticking to the pan?

Use a heavy-bottomed skillet and stir frequently while cooking the orzo to prevent sticking.

10. Can I freeze shrimp orzo?

While freezing is possible, the texture may change upon reheating, especially the shrimp. It's best enjoyed fresh or within a few days.

Conclusion

This shrimp orzo is a simple, flavorful dish that brings comfort to your table without the hassle. The creamy sauce, tender shrimp, and vibrant vegetables make it a complete meal that's both satisfying and easy to prepare. Whether you're short on time or looking for a quick dinner, this recipe is sure to become a weeknight favorite!

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Shrimp Orzo: A Simple, Creamy Delight

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Shrimp Orzo is an easy, creamy Italian-inspired dish perfect for a quick weeknight meal. This one-pan recipe combines tender shrimp with flavorful orzo, spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and artichokes, all cooked in a rich chicken broth and cream sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, this delicious dish is sure to impress!

• Author: Janet
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Dinner, Main Course, Comfort Food
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian-inspired
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

1 lb large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined

1 tablespoon olive oil

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup uncooked orzo

2 cups chicken broth

½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped

½ cup canned artichoke hearts, chopped

2 cups fresh spinach

½ cup heavy cream

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

½ teaspoon red pepper flakes

Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

• Season the shrimp with smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic and shrimp, cooking for about 2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.

• In the same skillet, add sun-dried tomatoes, orzo, and olive oil. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.

• Pour in chicken broth, bring to a simmer, and cook orzo for about 10 minutes until tender.

• Stir in spinach, artichokes, and heavy cream. Cook until spinach wilts, about 2 minutes.

• Return shrimp to the skillet, mixing gently until heated through.

• Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve hot.

Notes

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days.

• Reheating: Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.

• Tip: For an even creamier texture, you can add a splash more heavy cream during the final steps.