Introduction
Welcome to a delightful culinary experience that captures the essence of a comforting meal made easy! This One-Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is not just quick to prepare; it’s a symphony of flavors that brings the warmth of home-cooked goodness to your dinner table. Imagine tender shrimp cooked to a perfect pink, surrounded by creamy orzo pasta, fresh spinach, and juicy cherry tomatoes, all harmoniously coming together in one convenient dish. Let’s dive into the details for this heavenly recipe!
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup fresh spinach
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, allowing it to warm until it shimmers.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet, cooking until they turn a lovely pink, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Once done, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, toss in the diced onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Next, stir in the minced garlic. Allow it to cook for an additional 30 seconds until its aroma fills the kitchen.
- Pour in the orzo pasta, toasting it in the skillet for 1-2 minutes, which enhances its nutty flavor.
- Add the chicken broth and sprinkle in the Italian seasoning. Give it a good stir and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and most of the broth has been absorbed.
- Stir in the fresh spinach and halved cherry tomatoes, followed by returning the cooked shrimp to the skillet. Allow everything to simmer together for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts beautifully.
- Remove the skillet from heat and mix in the grated Parmesan cheese, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- For the finishing touch, garnish with fresh parsley before serving to add a pop of color and freshness.
Notes or Tips
Feel free to adjust the level of seasoning according to your personal taste. For a spicy kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes. You can also substitute cooked chicken or vegetables for shrimp to accommodate dietary preferences. This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Cooking Techniques
This recipe showcases the technique of sautéing, which allows the veggies to caramelize and develop deeper flavors. Additionally, toasting the orzo in oil before adding liquid helps to build a rich, nutty base. Using one pan not only simplifies the cooking process but also makes clean-up a breeze!
FAQ
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, frozen shrimp will work perfectly! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the components earlier and combine them right before serving.
What can I substitute for chicken broth?
Vegetable broth is a fantastic alternative if you want to keep it vegetarian or lighter.
Conclusion
This One-Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is a delightful addition to your dinner repertoire, bursting with vibrant flavors and textures that are sure to please everyone around the table. Its simplicity, combined with the comfort of rich flavors, makes it an ideal weeknight meal or a special occasion dish. So gather your ingredients, and let’s get cooking!