Delightful Shrimp Orzo with Spinach & Artichokes Recipe

Weeknight dinners demand delightful, quick shrimp and orzo with spinach and artichokes that spark joy at the dinner table.

Mediterranean flavors dance through this elegant one-pan meal.

Succulent shrimp nestle among tender orzo, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes.

Fresh spinach adds vibrant green color and nutritious flair to the dish.

Briny artichoke hearts provide a tangy counterpoint that makes each bite interesting.

Parmesan cheese melts into the orzo, lending a creamy richness that ties everything together.

You’ll find this recipe surprisingly simple to master, yet impressive enough to serve at a sophisticated dinner gathering.

Get ready to savor a Mediterranean-inspired masterpiece that comes together in less than 30 minutes.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

Calories: 496 kcal

Servings: 5

Ingredients for Shrimp and Orzo with Spinach

• Shrimp: Succulent seafood that provides a delicate, sweet flavor and tender texture, best when fresh and deveined.
• Chicken Stock: Adds rich depth and savory undertones, enhancing overall dish complexity.

• Smoked Paprika: Brings smoky warmth and vibrant color, choose high-quality Spanish variety for best results.
• Italian Seasoning: Blends aromatic herbs that elevate the dish's Mediterranean profile.
• Salt: Balances and intensifies other flavors, use sea salt or kosher salt for optimal taste.
• Black Pepper: Adds subtle heat and depth, freshly ground provides maximum flavor.
• Garlic: Provides robust, pungent base note, select firm, plump cloves without sprouts.

• Orzo: Delicate pasta that creates creamy texture, opt for bronze-cut varieties for better sauce absorption.
• Olive Oil: Offers smooth, fruity undertone and helps with even cooking.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Introduces concentrated, tangy sweetness, choose soft, moist varieties.
• Spinach: Adds vibrant green color and nutrient-dense freshness, baby spinach works best.
• Artichokes: Brings earthy, slightly nutty flavor, jarred or canned work well.
• Heavy Cream: Creates luxurious, silky sauce, ensure it's fresh and high-fat content.

Cooking Tools for Shrimp Orzo Skillet

• Large Skillet: Essential for searing shrimp and cooking orzo, providing even heat distribution.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Perfect for stirring orzo and preventing sticking without scratching the pan.
• Cutting Board: Needed for chopping sun-dried tomatoes and preparing ingredients.
• Sharp Knife: Crucial for precise ingredient preparation and mincing garlic.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient quantities for balanced flavors.
• Plate: Used for temporarily holding seared shrimp during cooking process.

Instructions for Shrimp, Spinach & Orzo Dish

Tropical Seafood Skillet

• Shrimp Seasoning

Rub your fresh shrimp with aromatic spices that will make them burst with flavor. Blend smoky paprika, herbal notes, and a pinch of salt to create a mouthwatering coating.

• Searing Magic

Heat a gleaming skillet until it shimmers with potential. Slip the shrimp into the hot oil, letting them dance and caramelize. Tiny garlic fragments will join the party, releasing their fragrant essence.

• Orzo Foundation

Transform the skillet into a canvas of deliciousness. Sprinkle golden orzo and sun-kissed tomatoes, toasting them until they develop a nutty, rich color.

• Liquid Alchemy

Pour chicken stock into the pan, creating a steamy environment where orzo will become tender and dreamy. Stir gently to prevent any sticking.

• Green and Creamy Transformation

Invite fresh spinach and tender artichokes to join the feast. A splash of cream will bind everything into a luxurious, velvety sauce.

• Final Harmony

Reunite the seared shrimp with the creamy mixture, allowing everything to mingle and warm through. A final whisper of seasoning will elevate the entire dish to culinary poetry.

Tips for Making It Creamier or Zestier

• Shrimp and Orzo Exploration
• Replace shrimp with chicken, white fish, or plant-based alternatives like tofu for a personalized protein twist. Each option brings unique flavors and textures to the dish.
• Experiment with different seasoning blends like Cajun, Mediterranean, or Greek spice mixes to transform the recipe's flavor profile and add exciting international flair.
• Incorporate additional vegetables like roasted red peppers, zucchini, or asparagus to boost nutritional value and create more vibrant color and texture in the dish.
• Prepare the orzo and shrimp separately and store in refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of chicken stock to maintain moisture and prevent drying out.
• Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream for a lighter, lactose-free version that still delivers rich, creamy goodness.

How to Serve Shrimp and Orzo Meals

• Mediterranean Dinner Plate: Arrange the shrimp and orzo on a wide ceramic plate, showcasing the vibrant colors of spinach and sun-dried tomatoes for a restaurant-style presentation.
• Wine Pairing Companion: Select a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc to complement the seafood's delicate flavors and cut through the creamy sauce.
• Fresh Herb Garnish: Sprinkle chopped fresh basil or parsley on top for added brightness, creating a pop of green color and enhancing the dish's aromatic profile.
• Crusty Bread Side: Serve with warm, toasted ciabatta or rustic bread to soak up the delicious cream sauce, transforming the meal into a more substantial dining experience.

Storage Tips for Shrimp Orzo

• Smart Storage Solutions
• Chill & Seal: Transfer leftovers to airtight containers within 2 hours of cooking. Refrigerate for up to 3 days, keeping shrimp and orzo separate to maintain optimal texture.
• Freezer Friendly: Portion meal into freezer-safe containers, removing excess air. Freeze for maximum 2 weeks. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before reheating.
• Gentle Reheating: Warm slowly in skillet with splash of chicken stock to prevent drying. Stir frequently on medium-low heat until heated thoroughly. Avoid microwave to maintain delicate shrimp texture.
• Flavor Boost Tip: Add fresh herbs like parsley or basil when reheating to refresh taste and brighten overall dish. Sprinkle extra smoked paprika for renewed zest.

Succulent Shrimp and Orzo with Spinach and Artichokes

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4.9 from 16 reviews

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 5 1x

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Description

Creamy shrimp and orzo with spinach and artichokes delivers Mediterranean comfort with elegant simplicity. Rich flavors mingle in this quick skillet dish that draws you into a Mediterranean culinary experience.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb / 454 g shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup orzo, uncooked
• 14 oz / 396 g artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
• 4 oz / 113 g fresh spinach
• ⅓ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 2 cups chicken stock
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ¼ tsp salt
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Seasoning Preparation: Coat raw shrimp thoroughly with smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper, ensuring complete coverage and even distribution of spices.
2. Shrimp Sautéing: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, then add shrimp and minced garlic. Cook rapidly until shrimp transform to a vibrant pink and develop a delicate crisp exterior, working in batches to prevent overcrowding.
3. Orzo Foundation: In the same skillet, toast sun-dried tomatoes and orzo with additional olive oil, stirring continuously until grains achieve a golden, aromatic complexion.
4. Liquid Integration: Pour chicken stock into the skillet, bringing the mixture to a robust boil. Reduce heat immediately, allowing orzo to simmer gently while occasionally stirring to prevent adherence to the pan.
5. Vegetable and Cream Fusion: Introduce fresh spinach, tender artichoke hearts, and rich cream into the orzo. Stir gently until spinach wilts and ingredients blend seamlessly, creating a luxurious, creamy texture.
6. Final Assembly: Reintroduce seared shrimp to the skillet, nestling them into the creamy mixture. Warm thoroughly, allowing flavors to meld and sauce to slightly condense, intensifying the overall taste profile.
7. Flavor Refinement: Taste and calibrate seasoning, adding additional salt, pepper, and smoked paprika to elevate the dish’s complexity and depth of flavor.

Notes

• Prevent Overcrowding: Cook shrimp in batches to ensure perfect searing and avoid steaming, maintaining a crisp exterior and tender texture.
• Toasting Technique: Carefully toast orzo and sun-dried tomatoes to develop a rich, nutty flavor that adds depth to the entire dish.
• Spinach Wilting Tip: Add spinach last and stir gently to prevent overcooking, preserving its vibrant color and delicate nutrients.
• Flavor Layering: Build complexity by seasoning each component separately and allowing ingredients to meld together during the final warming stage.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 5
• Calories: 496
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 890 mg
• Fat: 25 g
• Saturated Fat: 15 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 41 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 24 g
• Cholesterol: 202 mg