Shrimp Orzo Recipe

Shrimp Orzo is a delightful, easy-to-make dish that brings the flavors of the Mediterranean right to your kitchen. Combining tender, succulent shrimp with the nutty taste of orzo pasta, this recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. It’s packed with fresh vegetables, aromatic herbs, and a light lemony sauce that ties everything together. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking to try something new, Shrimp Orzo is sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Orzo

1. Cook the Orzo: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the orzo pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

1. Sauté the Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until the shrimp is pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Cook the Onion and Garlic: In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until the onion is soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the Vegetables: Stir in the cherry tomatoes and zucchini. Cook for another 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Step 4: Create the Sauce

1. Deglaze the Pan: If using white wine, pour it into the skillet and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the wine simmer for 1-2 minutes until it reduces slightly.
2. Add the Broth and Herbs: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, dried oregano, and lemon juice. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer.

Step 5: Combine the Ingredients

1. Mix in the Orzo: Add the cooked orzo to the skillet, stirring to coat it in the sauce.
2. Return the Shrimp: Gently fold the cooked shrimp back into the skillet, ensuring everything is evenly mixed and heated through.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

1. Add the Final Touches: Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the chopped parsley and sliced Kalamata olives. If desired, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top for a creamy, tangy finish.
2. Serve: Serve the Shrimp Orzo hot, garnished with additional parsley and lemon wedges on the side.

Serving Suggestions

Pairing Ideas

• Green Salad: A fresh green salad with a lemon vinaigrette complements the dish perfectly.
• Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
• Grilled Vegetables: Add grilled asparagus or bell peppers for a complete Mediterranean meal.

Wine Pairings

• White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs wonderfully with the light, lemony sauce.
• Rosé: A dry rosé adds a fruity contrast that balances the dish’s savory elements.

Tips for Success

Choosing the Right Shrimp

• Fresh vs. Frozen: Both fresh and frozen shrimp work well for this recipe. If using frozen shrimp, ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.
• Size Matters: Large shrimp are ideal for this dish, but you can use smaller shrimp if preferred. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Customizing the Recipe

• Vegetable Substitutions: Feel free to swap in other vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms based on your preferences.
• Grain Alternatives: If you’re not a fan of orzo, you can substitute it with other small pasta shapes like couscous or even quinoa.

Conclusion

Shrimp Orzo is a versatile, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of tender shrimp, savory orzo, and fresh vegetables creates a meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. With a bright lemony sauce and the option to customize the ingredients to your liking, this recipe is sure to be a hit with family and friends alike.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dish in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth to refresh the sauce.

Can I use other types of seafood?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with scallops, mussels, or even chunks of firm white fish.

Is this dish gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, substitute the orzo with gluten-free pasta or rice.

Can I omit the wine?

Yes, if you prefer not to use wine, you can simply skip that step and proceed with the broth.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a little added broth to maintain the sauce’s consistency.

Yield: 4

Shrimp Orzo Recipe

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Shrimp Orzo is a delightful, easy-to-make dish that brings the flavors of the Mediterranean right to your kitchen. Combining tender, succulent shrimp with the nutty taste of orzo pasta, this recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. It’s packed with fresh vegetables, aromatic herbs, and a light lemony sauce that ties everything together. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking to try something new, Shrimp Orzo is sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup white wine (optional, can substitute with more chicken broth)
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
• 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)

Instructions

1. Cook the Orzo:
   In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the orzo and toast for 2-3 minutes until lightly golden. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Cover and cook for 8-10 minutes until the orzo is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once cooked, set aside.
   
2. Cook the Shrimp:
   While the orzo is cooking, season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if using. In a separate skillet, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
   
3. Prepare the Sauce:
   In the same skillet used to cook the shrimp, add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
   Pour in the white wine (if using) and lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let the liquid reduce by half, about 2-3 minutes.
   
4. Combine Ingredients:
   Stir in the cooked orzo, cherry tomatoes, lemon zest, and butter. Cook for 2-3 minutes until everything is well combined and heated through. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat with the orzo mixture.
   
5. Finish and Serve:
   Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed.
   Serve the shrimp orzo warm, garnished with extra Parmesan and parsley if desired.

Notes

Orzo: You can substitute orzo with other small pasta shapes like ditalini or couscous if preferred.

Shrimp: Make sure to not overcook the shrimp as they can become tough. Cook just until they turn pink and opaque.

Wine: The white wine adds depth to the sauce, but if you prefer not to use alcohol, simply replace it with additional chicken broth.

Vegetables: Feel free to add more vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.

Make-Ahead: The orzo can be cooked ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat with a little broth or water to loosen it up before serving.

Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth to keep it from drying out.