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Creamy One-Pan Sun-Dried Tomato Orzo with Shrimp

creamy one-pan sun-dried tomato orzo with shrimp - featured image
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A quick and easy creamy one-pan dish featuring sun-dried tomatoes, tender shrimp, and orzo pasta, perfect for cozy dinners and busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (170g) orzo pasta
  • 1 pound (450g) raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • ½ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed preferred)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small shallot, finely chopped
  • 3 cups (720ml) low-sodium chicken broth
  • ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream (can substitute coconut cream for dairy-free)
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin recommended)
  • A handful fresh basil, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes
  • Optional: lemon zest or juice

Instructions

  1. Peel, devein, and pat dry the shrimp. Chop the sun-dried tomatoes and shallot, mince the garlic, and grate the Parmesan.
  2. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat in a large sauté pan. Add the shallot and garlic, cooking gently for about 2 minutes until fragrant and translucent but not browned.
  3. Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another minute to release their flavor.
  4. Add the orzo and stir to coat it in the oil and aromatics. Toast for about 2 minutes, stirring often until the edges start to turn golden.
  5. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to low, cover with a lid, and simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until orzo is al dente.
  6. Nestle the shrimp into the orzo, cover again, and cook for 3-4 minutes until shrimp turn pink and opaque. Avoid overcooking.
  7. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until the sauce is creamy and coats the orzo and shrimp. Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
  8. Turn off the heat and fold in the chopped fresh basil.
  9. Serve immediately, ideally warm and fresh.

Notes

If the sauce is too thick, add a splash more broth or cream to loosen it. If too thin, cook uncovered for a minute or two to reduce. Stir gently and often to prevent sticking and burning. Use a lid to trap steam for perfectly cooked orzo. For dairy-free, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and omit Parmesan or use vegan cheese.

Nutrition

Keywords: one-pan, creamy, sun-dried tomato, orzo, shrimp, quick dinner, easy recipe, weeknight meal, comfort food

Find it online: https://eliplate.com/creamy-one-pan-sun-dried-tomato-orzo-with-shrimp-easy-recipe-for-quick-dinner/