Description
This Parmesan Orzo with Shrimp recipe is a quick and flavorful dish perfect for a weeknight dinner. Combining tender orzo pasta cooked in vegetable broth with succulent shrimp, garlic, and a rich touch of Parmesan cheese, this meal is both comforting and elegant. With fresh parsley and simple ingredients, it’s easy to prepare in about 25 minutes and serves four, making it a delightful and satisfying option for seafood lovers.
Ingredients
Scale
Orzo and Broth
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups vegetable broth
Shrimp and Seasoning
- 1 cup shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Other Ingredients
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Heat Olive Oil: In a pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat to prepare for sautéing.
- Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the pot and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Toast Orzo: Add 1 cup of orzo pasta to the pot and stir continuously for 2 minutes to lightly toast the pasta and enhance its flavor.
- Add Broth and Boil: Pour in 2 cups of vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil, preparing to cook the orzo.
- Simmer Orzo: Reduce the heat to low and let the orzo simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally until the orzo becomes tender and absorbs most of the broth.
- Cook Shrimp: Add 1 cup of peeled and deveined shrimp along with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Cook the shrimp until they turn pink and are cooked through, about 3-4 minutes.
- Finish with Cheese and Parsley: Stir in 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese and 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley to add creaminess and freshness before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture, but frozen shrimp can be used if thawed properly.
- Vegetable broth can be substituted with chicken broth for a richer taste.
- To make it gluten-free, substitute orzo with gluten-free pasta alternatives.
- For a creamier texture, add a splash of cream or milk along with the Parmesan cheese.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper according to taste before serving.
