Description
Mediterranean charm meets culinary delight in this shrimp orzo, blending succulent seafood with al dente pasta. Herb-infused and zesty, this dish brings coastal Greek flavors directly to your dinner table, promising a quick, elegant meal that delights and satisfies.
Ingredients
Scale
Seafood:
- 1 lb (454 grams) large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
Seasonings and Spices:
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
Base and Vegetables:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup uncooked orzo
- 2 cups chicken stock
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 ounce (7 grams) artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
- 4 ounces (113 grams) fresh spinach
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking orzo)
Instructions
- Prepare the shrimp by seasoning with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl, ensuring each piece is evenly coated.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, approximately 2 minutes.
- Introduce shrimp and minced garlic to the hot skillet, cooking for 2 minutes per side until they transform to a vibrant pink and develop a golden exterior.
- Transfer seared shrimp to a separate plate, reserving the flavorful skillet for the next stage.
- In the same skillet, combine sun-dried tomatoes, uncooked orzo, and additional olive oil, toasting the ingredients for 2 minutes over medium heat.
- Pour chicken stock into the skillet, seasoning with salt, and bring the mixture to a rolling boil before reducing to a gentle simmer.
- Allow orzo to cook for 8-9 minutes, stirring periodically to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking until the pasta reaches a tender consistency.
- Fold in fresh spinach, chopped artichokes, and heavy cream, continuing to stir until the spinach wilts and creates a luxurious sauce.
- Return the previously seared shrimp to the skillet, letting the ingredients meld together for 2 minutes and ensuring everything is heated through.
- Adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of smoked paprika to enhance the flavor profile.
- Serve immediately while hot, presenting a vibrant and aromatic dish ready to be enjoyed.
Notes
- Toast the orzo carefully to enhance its nutty flavor and prevent burning, watching the skillet closely during the 2-minute sauté.
- Use fresh shrimp for the best taste and texture, patting them dry before seasoning to ensure a perfect golden sear.
- Select high-quality chicken stock to boost the overall depth of flavor in the dish, as it’s a key liquid component.
- Opt for baby spinach for quicker wilting and a more delicate texture in the final creamy sauce.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 363 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 704 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 23 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 24 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg