Description
Creamy shrimp orzo delivers Mediterranean comfort with silky pasta and succulent seafood. Garlic, herbs, and parmesan create a luxurious sauce that pulls you into a world of delightful Mediterranean flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 cup uncooked orzo
- 14 ounces (396 grams) artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
- 4 ounces (113 grams) fresh spinach
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups chicken stock
Supporting Ingredients:
- ⅓ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Seasoning:
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Sear the shrimp in a hot skillet until they turn golden and develop a slightly crisp exterior, ensuring each piece is cooked evenly and has a rich, caramelized flavor.
- Cook the orzo in salted water until it reaches an al dente consistency, draining carefully to preserve its tender texture and prevent overcooking.
- Prepare a luxurious cream sauce by combining heavy cream (236 milliliters or ), creating a smooth and velvety base for the dish.
- Integrate the perfectly seared shrimp back into the skillet, allowing them to mingle with the creamy orzo and sauce.
- Gently simmer the entire mixture for 2 minutes, which helps marry the flavors and ensures the shrimp are heated thoroughly without becoming rubbery.
- Enhance the dish’s complexity by seasoning with kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, and a pinch of smoked paprika to add depth and warmth.
- Transfer the creamy shrimp orzo to serving plates, creating an inviting presentation that showcases the golden shrimp and creamy pasta.
- Finish the dish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped herbs like parsley or chives, and optionally garnish with finely grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of richness.
Notes
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, maintaining best texture when gently reheated.
- Freezing works well for this dish, with cream sauce potentially separating slightly upon thawing but still delicious when stirred.
- Choose large, tail-on shrimp for more visual appeal and easier eating experience.
- Fresh herbs like parsley or chives add bright flavor and beautiful color contrast to the creamy pasta.
- Consider adding a splash of white wine or lemon juice for extra depth and brightness in the sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 570 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 40g
- Saturated Fat: 24g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 150mg