This Creamy Tuscan Shrimp Orzo combines juicy shrimp with tender orzo pasta, all nestled in a rich and creamy sauce. It’s like a warm hug on a plate!
The burst of sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach makes this dish feel fancy, but it’s super easy to whip up. I could eat this every week—who needs takeout? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp add a great bite to this dish. If you’re not a shellfish fan, try using chicken breast or even tofu for a vegetarian option. You can also swap in frozen shrimp; just remember to thaw them before cooking!
Orzo Pasta: Orzo gives a lovely texture. If you’re gluten-free, try rice or quinoa. Both options will provide a different texture but still work well in the creamy sauce.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: They bring a concentrated flavor. Canned diced tomatoes can work if sun-dried aren’t available, but the taste will be milder; you might want to add a splash of balsamic vinegar for tartness.
Heavy Cream: This creates the creamy sauce you love. If you’re looking for a lighter version, consider using half-and-half or a dairy-free option like coconut cream. Just be aware that flavors might vary slightly.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor. If you don’t have any, Pecorino Romano is a great substitute, or you can use nutritional yeast for a vegan touch.
How Do I Cook Orzo Perfectly?
Cooking orzo seems simple, but it’s important to get it just right. Here’s how to ensure it’s tender but not mushy:
- Toast the orzo in a hot pan for 1-2 minutes before adding liquid. This enhances its nutty flavor.
- Add the broth and keep an eye on it; give it a stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Cook until all the liquid is absorbed, but don’t be afraid to taste it a minute or two before the time is up.
By following these steps, you’ll have perfectly cooked orzo that’s ready to absorb the creamy sauce!
How to Make Creamy Tuscan Shrimp Orzo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (preferably packed in oil, drained)
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 3 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation time and around 20 minutes for cooking. So you’ll be enjoying your delicious Creamy Tuscan Shrimp Orzo in about 35 minutes total!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Seasoning the Shrimp:
Start by seasoning your cleaned shrimp with salt and black pepper. This adds flavor to the shrimp, making them deliciously tasty.
2. Cooking the Shrimp:
In a large skillet or pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned shrimp. Cook them for about 2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Once done, remove them from the pan and set them aside.
3. Sautéing Garlic and Onion:
With the shrimp out of the pan, add a little more oil if necessary. Next, add the minced garlic and chopped onion. Sauté these for about 2-3 minutes until they become fragrant and the onion turns translucent.
4. Adding Sun-Dried Tomatoes:
Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and Italian seasoning. Let this cook together for an additional minute to blend the flavors.
5. Toasting the Orzo:
Add the orzo pasta to the pan and toast it slightly for about 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently. This step helps enhance its nutty flavor.
6. Cooking the Orzo:
Pour in the chicken broth and stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, cover the pan, and let it cook until the orzo is tender and most of the broth is absorbed. This should take about 10-12 minutes.
7. Creating the Creamy Sauce:
Once the orzo is nearly cooked, lower the heat and gently stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, fresh spinach, and the optional crushed red pepper flakes. Cook this for about 3 minutes until the spinach wilts, and the sauce thickens a bit.
8. Finishing the Dish:
Return the cooked shrimp to the pan, stirring to combine everything and heat through for another 1-2 minutes.
9. Final Seasoning:
Give everything a taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
10. Garnishing and Serving:
Finally, garnish your Creamy Tuscan Shrimp Orzo with fresh chopped basil for a pop of color and flavor. Serve warm and enjoy!
Enjoy your creamy, comforting Tuscan shrimp orzo! It’s the perfect dish to warm you up and satisfy your taste buds.
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp before cooking. You can place them in the fridge overnight or submerge them in cold water for a quicker thaw. Pat them dry before seasoning to prevent excess moisture.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep most of the components ahead of time! You can cook the orzo and make the sauce, then store them separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat gently on the stove, adding a bit more broth or cream as needed.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half works well. For a dairy-free version, try using coconut cream or cashew cream. Just keep in mind that the flavor will change slightly, but it will still be delicious!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
