Looking for a quick, tasty dinner? You’ve come to the right place! This One-Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp packs a punch of flavor without the fuss of multiple dishes. With just a few simple ingredients like shrimp, orzo, and fresh veggies, you can whip up a savory delight that satisfies everyone at the table. Let’s dive into the recipe and make your next meal both easy and delicious!
Ingredients
Main ingredients needed
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Additional ingredients for flavor
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh components
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup spinach, chopped
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
– Seasoning essentials: 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper
For this dish, you need some key ingredients. First, orzo pasta creates a nice base. It cooks quickly and soaks up flavors well. Then, the shrimp adds protein and a sweet taste. Choose fresh shrimp for the best flavor. Olive oil brings richness and helps with cooking.
Next, garlic gives a nice aroma and taste. You will also need low-sodium chicken broth. This broth adds depth to the dish without too much salt. Parmesan cheese brings creaminess and a savory touch. Use fresh grated cheese for better melting.
Freshness is key, too. Cherry tomatoes add a sweet burst. Spinach gives a touch of green and nutrients. Finally, fresh basil leaves make a lovely garnish.
Don’t forget the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. These simple seasonings enhance the dish perfectly. Together, these ingredients create a savory delight that is sure to impress.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation steps
Sautéing the garlic
First, grab a large skillet. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 3 cloves of minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute. You want it to smell nice but not burn.
Toasting the orzo
Next, add 1 cup of orzo pasta to the skillet. Stir the orzo well to coat it in the garlic oil. Toast the orzo for 2 to 3 minutes. It should turn slightly golden. This step adds flavor to the dish.
Cooking the orzo
Adding the broth and simmering
Now, pour in 4 cups of low-sodium chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, lower the heat to a simmer and cover the skillet. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring every few minutes. The orzo should absorb the broth and soften.
Incorporating shrimp and tomatoes
When the orzo is almost cooked, add 1 pound of peeled and deveined shrimp and 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Cover the skillet again and cook for another 5 minutes. The shrimp will turn pink when done.
Finishing touches
Adding spinach and Parmesan cheese
After the shrimp is cooked, stir in 1 cup of chopped spinach and 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheese melts and the spinach wilts. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Garnishing before serving
Remove the skillet from the heat. Let it sit for a couple of minutes. This helps it thicken slightly. Before serving, garnish with fresh basil leaves. Now, your One-Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp is ready to enjoy!
Tips & Tricks
Cooking tips for perfect orzo
– Ensuring the right texture: Cook the orzo until it is just al dente. This keeps it firm and not mushy. Stir regularly while it cooks to avoid sticking.
– Avoiding overcooked shrimp: Shrimp cooks fast. Add it to the orzo when it is almost done. Cook it for just 5 minutes until it turns pink.
Enhancements for flavor
– Substituting other cheeses: If you want a twist, try using feta or goat cheese. They add a nice tangy flavor.
– Using fresh herbs for a boost: Fresh herbs like parsley or dill can brighten the dish. Add them right before serving for the best taste.
Recommended utensils
– Best skillet options: Use a large, deep skillet for even cooking. A non-stick skillet helps in easy cleanup too.
– Tools for effortless serving: A large spoon or spatula makes serving easy. Consider using a ladle for a neat scoop.
Variations
Dietary adaptations
Gluten-free options
You can easily make this dish gluten-free. Substitute the orzo with gluten-free pasta. Rice or quinoa also works well. Check your broth to ensure it’s gluten-free too.
Vegetarian alternative suggestions
If you want a vegetarian dish, skip the shrimp. Add more veggies like bell peppers or zucchini. Tofu or chickpeas can give you protein without meat.
Flavor variations
Adding different vegetables
You can mix in any veggies you like. Try peas, asparagus, or broccoli for a new taste. Each choice adds a nice crunch and color to the dish.
Spice it up with cayenne or paprika
Want some heat? Add a pinch of cayenne or paprika. This will bring a warm kick to the meal without overwhelming it.
Meal prep ideas
Making ahead and freezing
You can make this dish ahead of time. Just let it cool, then place it in a freezer-safe container. It lasts up to three months in the freezer.
Serving suggestions for leftovers
Leftovers are great! You can reheat them in a pan with a splash of broth. Serve with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Storage Info
Best practices for storage
To keep your One-Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp fresh, cool it down first. Place leftovers in airtight containers. This helps lock in moisture and flavor. Glass or plastic containers work well. Always label the containers with the date. This way, you can track how long it’s been stored.
Reheating instructions
When reheating, the stovetop is best. Place the orzo in a skillet with a splash of broth. Warm it gently over medium heat. Stir often to keep it from sticking. This method helps maintain the creamy texture. You can also use a microwave. Just cover it and heat in short bursts, stirring in between.
Shelf life
In the refrigerator, your dish lasts about 3 to 4 days. If you want to save it longer, freezing is a great option. Store it in freezer-safe containers. It’s best to eat frozen orzo within 2 months for the best flavor. Remember to thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
FAQs
Common cooking questions
Can I use another type of pasta?
Yes, you can use other pasta. However, orzo works best in this dish. If you use other shapes, adjust the cooking time.
How do I know when the shrimp is cooked through?
Cook shrimp until they turn pink and opaque. This usually takes about five minutes. Make sure they look firm and not translucent.
Ingredient substitutions
What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?
You can use Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option. Both add nice flavor.
What is a good low-sodium broth alternative?
You can use water with herbs or a homemade broth. This keeps the dish tasty without added salt.
Serving suggestions
What pairs well with One-Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp?
Serve with a fresh salad or garlic bread for a full meal. A light white wine also complements this dish.
Can I serve this dish cold as a salad?
Yes, this dish can be served cold. It makes a great pasta salad for warm days. Just chill it after cooking and add a squeeze of lemon.
This blog post covered how to make One-Pan Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp. You learned about the main and fresh ingredients. I shared step-by-step instructions for cooking. Tips helped you achieve the best texture and flavor. I also explored dietary variations and storage tips for leftovers.
In summary, this dish is easy, flavorful, and flexible. Enjoy cooking and experimenting with your meal!
