Description
Mediterranean magic unfolds with Shrimp Orzo, a quick and elegant dish blending succulent seafood and pasta perfection. Zesty herbs, garlic, and juicy shrimp create a simple yet sophisticated meal you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Proteins:
- 1 pound (454 grams) large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined (16–20 count per pound)
- 4 ounces (113 grams) fresh spinach
- 14 ounces (397 grams) artichoke hearts, drained and chopped (about 1 cup)
Seasonings and Spices:
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning (thyme, basil, oregano, rosemary)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
Cooking Ingredients:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- ⅓ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup uncooked orzo
- 2 cups chicken stock
- 1 cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Prepare the aromatic seafood by combining shrimp with zesty spices, ensuring each morsel is evenly coated with paprika, Italian herbs, salt, and freshly ground pepper.
- Create a sizzling base in a large skillet, drizzling olive oil and bringing the surface to a medium-high temperature.
- Introduce plump shrimp and minced garlic to the hot pan, quickly searing for approximately two minutes on each side until they transform into a delicate pink with golden edges.
- Gently transfer the perfectly cooked shrimp to a separate plate, reserving them for later incorporation.
- Utilize the same skillet to toast sun-dried tomatoes and uncooked orzo, adding an additional splash of olive oil to enhance flavor and prevent sticking.
- Carefully pour chicken stock into the skillet, allowing the mixture to reach a robust boil before reducing to a gentle simmer.
- Stir occasionally while the orzo absorbs the liquid, cooking until it becomes tender and reaches an al dente consistency.
- Fold vibrant spinach and briny artichokes into the orzo, then introduce rich heavy cream to create a luxurious, velvety texture.
- Reunite the previously seared shrimp with the creamy orzo mixture, letting everything meld together with a brief, gentle simmer.
- Conduct a final seasoning assessment, sprinkling additional salt, pepper, and a whisper of smoked paprika to elevate the dish’s complexity.
- Serve immediately, presenting a harmonious blend of oceanic and Mediterranean flavors.
Notes
- Experiment with different proteins like chicken or tofu to create versatile meal options for various dietary preferences.
- Toast orzo carefully to enhance nutty flavor without burning, watching skillet closely during browning process.
- Use low-sodium chicken stock to control salt levels and customize seasoning according to personal taste.
- Consider dairy-free alternatives like coconut cream or almond milk for those with lactose intolerance or vegan diets.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 850 mg
- Fat: 23 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 42 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 24 g
- Cholesterol: 150 mg