This Creamy Tuscan Shrimp Orzo is a delicious dish that combines tender shrimp, rich cream, and perfectly cooked orzo pasta. It’s full of tasty sun-dried tomatoes and spinach for a pop of color!
It’s the kind of meal that makes you feel fancy without all the fuss. I love making it for dinner when I want to impress someone—or just treat myself. 🍤❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp work best for this dish because they cook evenly and have great texture. If shrimp isn’t available, you can substitute with diced chicken breast or firm tofu for a different twist.
Orzo: This pasta is the star of the show. If you don’t have orzo, try using small pasta shapes, like ditalini or even rice. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly!
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: I recommend using sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil for richness. If those aren’t available, consider using fresh cherry tomatoes, chopped, for a lighter flavor. You can also leave them out if you prefer a simpler dish.
Heavy Cream: This gives you that luscious creamy texture. If you want a lighter option, substitute half-and-half, or even coconut milk for a dairy-free version. Just keep in mind the flavor may change a bit!
How Do You Cook Orzo Properly?
Cooking orzo might seem simple, but a few tips make a difference! First, make sure to sauté the orzo lightly before adding the liquid. This brings out its nutty flavor. When adding the chicken broth, keep an eye on it while it simmers. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and wait until most of the liquid is absorbed for the best texture.
- Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in the skillet before adding the orzo.
- When you simmer, keep it on low-medium heat to cook evenly.
- Remember to taste before finishing up to adjust seasoning just right!
How to Make Creamy Tuscan Shrimp Orzo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- For Cooking:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- For the Orzo:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- For Richness and Flavor:
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (preferably packed in oil)
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- For Seasoning:
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish will take about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping your ingredients and 20 minutes cooking. Perfect for a quick yet satisfying dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Shrimp:
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp and season them with salt and pepper. Sauté the shrimp until they turn pink and are cooked through, which will take about 2-3 minutes per side. Once done, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside for later.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and finely chopped onion. Cook them together until they become soft and fragrant, which should take about 2 minutes. This will create a lovely base for your orzo.
3. Toast the Orzo:
Next, add the orzo pasta to the skillet and sauté it for 1-2 minutes. This toasting step brings out the nutty flavor of the orzo, making it even tastier!
4. Cook the Orzo:
Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let the orzo simmer until it’s tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, which should take about 8-10 minutes. Remember to stir it occasionally to prevent sticking!
5. Mix in the Creaminess:
Now it’s time to make it creamy! Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Continue cooking while stirring frequently, until the spinach wilts and the cream thickens slightly—this should take about 3-5 minutes.
6. Combine with Shrimp:
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and gently toss everything together to combine and heat through. This step brings all those delicious flavors together!
7. Adjust the Flavor:
Take a moment to taste your dish. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, if needed, until it’s just right for you.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, serve the creamy Tuscan shrimp orzo hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley. Enjoy your delightful meal—every bite is sure to impress!
### FAQ for Creamy Tuscan Shrimp Orzo
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! If using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them before cooking. You can thaw shrimp overnight in the fridge or quickly under cold running water. Pat them dry with paper towels to reduce moisture while cooking.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free variation. Just keep in mind that the flavor and creaminess might change slightly!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover creamy Tuscan shrimp orzo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to bring back the creamy texture if needed.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to incorporate additional vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrients. Just sauté them alongside the garlic and onion for an excellent flavor foundation.