Description
Mediterranean-inspired shrimp and orzo create a delightful harmony of flavors. Fresh spinach and tender artichokes complement succulent shrimp, inviting you to savor each delectable bite of this elegant one-pan meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein:
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
Primary Ingredients:
- 1 cup orzo, uncooked
- 14 ounces (396 grams) artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
- 4 ounces (113 grams) fresh spinach
- ⅓ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
Liquid and Seasoning:
- 2 cups chicken stock
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Coat raw shrimp generously with smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper, ensuring each piece is well-seasoned.
- Warm olive oil in a spacious skillet over medium-high temperature until it shimmers, then introduce shrimp and minced garlic, cooking swiftly until they turn pink and slightly crisp.
- Cook shrimp in separate batches if necessary to prevent overcrowding, which can cause steaming instead of searing. Transfer cooked shrimp to a holding plate.
- In the same skillet, toast chopped sun-dried tomatoes and orzo with additional olive oil, stirring continuously until grains develop a golden, nutty appearance.
- Pour chicken stock into the skillet, incorporating salt, and bring the mixture to a vigorous boil. Immediately reduce heat, allowing orzo to simmer gently while occasionally stirring to prevent sticking.
- Incorporate fresh spinach, tender artichoke hearts, and rich cream into the orzo, gently stirring until spinach leaves wilt and ingredients meld harmoniously.
- Return seared shrimp to the skillet, nestling them into the creamy mixture. Warm thoroughly, allowing flavors to intermingle and sauce to slightly thicken.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, and smoked paprika to enhance the dish’s complexity and depth of flavor.
Notes
- Batch Cook Shrimp: Prevent overcrowding in the skillet to ensure proper searing and avoid steaming the delicate seafood.
- Toasting Orzo: Browning the pasta before adding liquid enhances its nutty flavor and creates a richer overall dish.
- Liquid Control: Stir orzo frequently and adjust chicken stock as needed to prevent sticking and achieve perfect pasta texture.
- Wilting Greens: Add spinach last and cook briefly to maintain vibrant color and prevent overcooking.
- Seasoning Layers: Build depth by seasoning at multiple stages – shrimp, orzo, and final dish – using smoked paprika and herbs.
- Quick Cooking Technique: Keep cooking times short for shrimp and spinach to preserve tender texture and fresh flavors.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 510
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 500 mg
- Fat: 32 g
- Saturated Fat: 18 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 43 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 10 g
- Cholesterol: 100 mg