Tuscan Shrimp Orzo

Tuscan Shrimp Orzo is a wonderful dish that brings together the flavors of Italy. It features tender shrimp, delicious sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach all mixed with orzo pasta. This recipe is simple to make, and it’s packed with taste! It’s a great meal for any night, whether it’s a family dinner or a special gathering with friends.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is perfect for several reasons. First, it’s quick and easy to prepare, taking less than 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s also healthy, with lots of fresh ingredients like spinach and artichokes. Plus, it looks great on the plate, making it a fun dish to serve at dinner parties. The combination of shrimp and orzo creates a comforting meal that everyone will love!

How to Make Tuscan Shrimp Orzo

Ingredients:

• 8 oz orzo pasta
• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1 cup canned artichokes, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Directions:

1. In a large skillet or pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp to the skillet and season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook shrimp for about 3-4 minutes, until they are pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the orzo pasta and 4 cups of water (or broth if preferred). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer. Cook until orzo is al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
5. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and artichokes. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and mix everything together.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the dish is heated through.
7. Serve warm, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

How to Serve Tuscan Shrimp Orzo

Serve the Tuscan Shrimp Orzo warm right from the skillet. It looks colorful with all the ingredients and is a complete meal in one dish. If you like, add some grated Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor. This dish goes well with a side salad and a piece of crusty bread.

How to Store Tuscan Shrimp Orzo

If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. Be aware that the orzo will absorb some moisture, so you might want to add a splash of broth or water when reheating.

Tips to Make Tuscan Shrimp Orzo

• Make sure to use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
• If you want a bit of spice, add some red pepper flakes when cooking the shrimp.
• You can substitute other vegetables if you prefer. Zucchini or bell peppers can also work well in this dish.

Variation (if any)

You can switch out shrimp for chicken or even sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian option. Change up the greens by using kale or arugula instead of spinach for a different taste.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them before cooking.

2. What can I serve with Tuscan Shrimp Orzo? This dish is great on its own, but you can add a side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time? While it is best served fresh, you can prepare the ingredients and cook everything up to 2 hours in advance and keep it warm until serving.