Prawn Orzo with Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. The prawns are seasoned to perfection with paprika and garlic, bringing a bold and savory profile to the dish. The orzo pasta soaks up the richness of the chicken broth and heavy cream, while the sun-dried tomatoes add a burst of umami. The creamy spinach and crunchy broccoli elevate the overall texture, creating a deliciously satisfying meal that you can enjoy on any occasion. With its balanced combination of protein, veggies, and pasta, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your dinner rotation.

Ingredients

For the Prawns:

• 1 1/2 lb raw king prawns, peeled
• 1 tsp paprika powder
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 6 cloves garlic, minced

For the Orzo Pasta:

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup broccoli, finely chopped
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Salt and black pepper to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Prawns:
   • In a bowl, combine the paprika, red pepper flakes (if using), garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Toss the prawns in the seasoning mixture to coat them evenly.
   • In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the prawns and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are fully cooked through. Once cooked, remove the prawns from the skillet and set them aside.
2. Prepare the Orzo:
   • In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and sauté the chopped sun-dried tomatoes over medium heat for 1-2 minutes until they begin to release their oils and become fragrant.
   • Add the uncooked orzo pasta to the skillet, stirring to coat it in the oil and tomatoes. Let it cook for about 1 minute.
   • Pour in the chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed.
   • Add the chopped broccoli and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the broccoli is tender.
3. Add the Cream and Spinach:
   • Stir in the fresh spinach and cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing it to wilt.
   • Pour in the heavy cream and mix everything together. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Let the mixture simmer for another 2-3 minutes until it’s creamy and well combined.
4. Combine the Prawns with the Orzo:
   • Return the cooked prawns to the skillet, gently tossing them into the orzo mixture. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to heat the prawns through and allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Serve:
   • Remove from heat and serve the Prawn Orzo with Sun-Dried Tomatoes in individual bowls or plates. Enjoy this delicious, creamy, and flavorful meal!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Skip the prawns and substitute with tofu or more vegetables such as roasted mushrooms or zucchini for a delicious vegetarian option.
• Spicy Kick: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a few dashes of hot sauce for extra heat.
• Herb Variations: Add fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or thyme to the orzo for additional layers of flavor.
• Lemon Zest: Add a touch of lemon zest to the dish just before serving for a bright and zesty finish.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This dish can be frozen, but the cream may separate slightly upon reheating. Wrap the dish tightly and store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen up the sauce if needed.

FAQs

1. Can I use shrimp instead of prawns?

Yes, shrimp works perfectly in this recipe. Use peeled and deveined shrimp, and adjust the cooking time accordingly, as they cook faster than prawns.

2. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, you can use coconut milk or almond milk in place of the heavy cream for a dairy-free version. You can also try a dairy-free cream alternative for a similar texture.

3. How do I prevent the orzo from getting too mushy?

To prevent the orzo from becoming mushy, avoid overcooking it. Once the chicken broth is absorbed, keep an eye on the pasta and check for doneness around the 10-minute mark.

4. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just be sure to thaw and drain any excess water before adding it to the orzo to maintain the right texture.

5. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While this dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the components ahead of time and store them separately. Assemble and heat everything together when you’re ready to serve.

6. How can I make the sauce thicker?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a bit of water and let it simmer until thickened. Alternatively, reduce the cream a little longer to achieve the desired consistency.

7. Can I add other vegetables to the dish?

Yes, you can add other vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or artichokes to the orzo for extra flavor and texture.

8. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute orzo with other small pasta shapes like couscous, small shells, or farfalle if preferred.

9. How do I make the dish spicier?

Add more red pepper flakes or a fresh chopped chili to the dish to enhance the heat. You can also drizzle some spicy olive oil over the top just before serving.

10. What can I serve with this dish?

This dish pairs well with a light side salad, crusty bread, or roasted vegetables to complete the meal.

Conclusion

Prawn Orzo with Sun-Dried Tomatoes is a vibrant, creamy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With succulent prawns, tender orzo pasta, and a rich creamy sauce, this recipe offers the perfect balance of textures and flavors. The addition of sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and broccoli adds a Mediterranean flair, making it a healthy and satisfying meal. Easy to prepare yet impressive enough for special occasions, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy!

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