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Shrimp and Orzo

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A quick, comforting, and Mediterranean-inspired Shrimp and Orzo recipe that’s rich in flavor, creamy in texture, and perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

  • Shrimp: 1 pound, peeled and deveined
  • Orzo Pasta: 1 cup
  • Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
  • Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
  • Cherry Tomatoes: 1 cup, halved
  • Tomato Paste: 1 tablespoon
  • Chicken or Vegetable Broth: 2 cups
  • Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons
  • Red Pepper Flakes: ½ teaspoon
  • Fresh Parsley: ¼ cup, chopped
  • Salt and Black Pepper: to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat Your Equipment: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Drizzle in olive oil and let it shimmer.
  2. Combine Ingredients: Add garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in tomato paste and cherry tomatoes. Cook until tomatoes soften and burst.
  3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Add the orzo to the skillet and toast for 2 minutes. Pour in the broth and bring to a simmer. Stir occasionally and cook until orzo is al dente and liquid is mostly absorbed (about 8–10 minutes).
  4. Assemble the Dish: Nestle the shrimp into the orzo mixture. Cover and cook for 3–4 minutes until shrimp is opaque and curled.
  5. Cook to Perfection: Uncover, stir gently, and season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Let it cook uncovered for another minute to thicken slightly.
  6. Finishing Touches: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and a final drizzle of olive oil or zest of lemon if desired.
  7. Serve and Enjoy: Dish up into bowls while it’s still warm and steamy. Enjoy with crusty bread or a light salad.

Notes

  • Toast the orzo first to add a nutty flavor.
  • Don’t overcook the shrimp — they cook fast.
  • Add a swirl of butter at the end for extra richness.
  • Squeeze lemon juice right before serving for freshness.