Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this one pot marry me shrimp and orzo pasta! This dish has become a staple in my kitchen, and trust me, once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s got “marry me” in the name! It’s all about that tender shrimp, perfectly cooked orzo, and the vibrant burst of cherry tomatoes that come together in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. I remember the first time I made it for my friends; the kitchen filled with the most mouthwatering aroma, and by the end of the meal, there were definitely a few marriage proposals flying around! It’s easy, quick, and oh-so-flavorful. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. You really can’t go wrong here!
Ingredients List
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Prepare One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta
Step-by-Step Instructions
Alright, let’s get cooking! First things first, grab a large pot and heat up those two tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. You want it nice and warm, but not smoking—so keep an eye on it! Once the oil is shimmering, toss in the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté these beauties for about 2-3 minutes, or until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant. Oh, the smell is divine!
Next, it’s time to add the star of the show: the shrimp! Toss in your peeled and deveined shrimp, and cook them for about 3-4 minutes, until they turn that gorgeous pink color. Don’t forget to stir occasionally—this is where the magic happens! Then, add in the halved cherry tomatoes and sprinkle that teaspoon of paprika. Mix everything together for a minute or so, letting those flavors mingle and dance.
Now, pour in the 4 cups of chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. This is the perfect moment to get your orzo ready! Once it’s boiling, add in the orzo pasta and give it a good stir. Reduce the heat to a simmer and let it cook for about 10-12 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally to keep everything from sticking together. You want the orzo to be al dente, so taste it a minute or two before the time is up!
Once the orzo is cooked to perfection, season with salt and pepper to your liking. Finally, take it off the heat, and stir in that fresh chopped parsley for a lovely pop of color. And just like that, you’re ready to serve up a dish that’s sure to impress! Enjoy your delicious creation—you might just get a marriage proposal out of this one!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One pot means minimal cleanup—spend less time washing dishes and more time enjoying your meal!
- It’s quick to prepare, taking just about 30 minutes from start to finish—perfect for busy weeknights.
- The combination of shrimp, orzo, and cherry tomatoes creates a delightful medley of flavors and textures.
- Customizable to your taste; whether you’re in the mood for extra spices or a veggie boost, it adapts beautifully.
- It’s a crowd-pleaser! I’ve served this to friends and family, and it never fails to impress.
- Nutritious and satisfying, packed with protein and veggies, making it a wholesome meal option.
- Gluten-free and Mediterranean-inspired, it’s a dish that fits various dietary preferences.
Tips for Success
Now that you’re ready to make this incredible one pot marry me shrimp and orzo pasta, here are some of my favorite tips to ensure it turns out perfectly every single time!
- Season to your taste: Don’t be shy with the salt and pepper! Give it a taste test as you go and adjust the seasonings according to your preference. A little extra paprika can elevate the flavor beautifully!
- Watch the shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly—usually just 3-4 minutes! Keep an eye on them and remove them from the heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque. Overcooking can lead to rubbery shrimp, and we definitely don’t want that!
- Perfect orzo: Stir the orzo occasionally while it cooks to prevent it from sticking together. I recommend tasting it a minute or two before the cooking time is up to make sure it’s al dente—no one likes mushy pasta!
- Fresh ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh shrimp and ripe cherry tomatoes. Fresh produce makes a world of difference in flavor and texture!
- Let it rest: After cooking, let the dish sit for a couple of minutes before serving. This helps the flavors to meld together even more. Plus, it gives you a moment to set the table or pour a glass of wine!
- Garnish with flair: Don’t forget to sprinkle extra parsley or even a squeeze of lemon juice on top just before serving. It adds a fresh pop that really brightens everything up!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to create a dish that’s not just delicious, but also a total showstopper. Happy cooking!
Variations
One of the best things about one pot marry me shrimp and orzo pasta is how easy it is to customize! Here are some fun ideas to mix things up and make it your own:
- Protein Swap: If you’re not in the mood for shrimp, you can easily substitute it with chicken or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly—chicken will need a few extra minutes to cook through!
- Veggie Boost: Add in some colorful veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini. Toss them in when you add the cherry tomatoes for a delightful pop of color and nutrition!
- Cheesy Goodness: Stir in some feta or Parmesan cheese just before serving for an extra layer of richness and flavor. Trust me, it takes it to a whole new level!
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs! Basil, dill, or even a sprinkle of oregano can add a new dimension to the dish. Fresh herbs really brighten up the flavors!
- Spice It Up: If you like a little heat, add some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while cooking. It’s a great way to kick things up a notch!
- Creamy Twist: For a creamy version, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese at the end. It gives the dish a luxurious texture that’s simply irresistible!
Feel free to get creative and let your taste buds guide you. The beauty of this dish is its versatility, so don’t hesitate to play around with different ingredients until you find your perfect combo!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Alright, let’s talk leftovers! If you happen to have any of that delicious one pot marry me shrimp and orzo pasta left (though I doubt you will!), storing it is super easy. Just let the dish cool down completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This will help keep it fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to label it with the date so you know when it’s time to savor those leftovers!
When it comes to reheating, I recommend using the stovetop for the best flavor and texture. Just add a splash of chicken broth or a little water to the pot to prevent it from drying out, and heat it over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally until it’s warmed through. Keep an eye on it, so those shrimp don’t overcook again—nobody wants rubbery shrimp!
If you’re in a hurry, the microwave is also an option! Just pop it in a microwave-safe dish and cover it loosely with a lid or microwave-safe wrap. Heat it in short bursts, stirring in between, until it’s hot all the way through. Just be careful; it can get hot quickly!
So there you have it—easy storage and reheating tips to keep your one pot marry me shrimp and orzo pasta tasting just as fabulous as it did on the first day. Enjoy every last bite!
Nutritional Information
Let’s talk numbers! Here’s an estimated nutritional breakdown for one serving of the one pot marry me shrimp and orzo pasta. Keep in mind that these numbers can vary a bit depending on the specific brands and measurements you use, but it gives you a great idea of what you’re enjoying:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 200mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 25g
With this delicious dish, you’re not only indulging in flavors but also packing in some protein and nutrients! It’s a satisfying meal that won’t leave you feeling guilty. Enjoy every bite knowing it’s a wholesome choice!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen shrimp work just fine. Just be sure to thaw them completely before cooking. You can leave them in the fridge overnight or place them in a bowl of cold water for a quicker thaw. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as frozen shrimp might take a minute longer to turn pink.
What if I don’t have orzo pasta?
No worries at all! You can substitute orzo with other small pasta shapes like couscous, ditalini, or even rice if you’re feeling adventurous. Just remember to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose. Each type has its own cooking requirements!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can! This one pot marry me shrimp and orzo pasta can be made in advance and stored in the fridge. Just reheat it gently on the stovetop when you’re ready to serve. You might want to add a splash of broth to keep it from drying out during reheating.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes! As long as you use gluten-free orzo or a gluten-free pasta alternative, this dish can easily fit into a gluten-free diet. Just double-check the labels to ensure that everything you’re using is indeed gluten-free.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
If you like a little kick, you can add red pepper flakes or even a dash of hot sauce while cooking. You might also try including some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper when you sauté the onions and garlic. Adjust to your taste for that perfect spicy kick!
One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta: 7 Irresistible Tips
- Temps Total: 30 minutes
- Rendement: 4 servings 1x
- Alimentation: Sans Gluten
Description
A delicious one pot dish featuring shrimp and orzo pasta.
Ingrédients
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat.
- Add onion and garlic, sauté until translucent.
- Stir in shrimp, cooking until they turn pink.
- Add cherry tomatoes and paprika, mix well.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.
- Add orzo and cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Remove from heat and stir in parsley before serving.
Notes
- Adjust seasoning to your taste.
- Can substitute shrimp with chicken or vegetables.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Temps De Préparation: 10 minutes
- Temps De Cuisson: 20 minutes
- Catégorie: Main Course
- Méthode: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
La Nutrition
- Taille D'Une Portion: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sucre: 2g
- De Sodium: 800mg
- La graisse: 10g
- Graisses Saturées: 1g
- Les Graisses Insaturées: 9g
- Les Gras Trans: 0g
- Les hydrates de carbone: 45g
- La fibre: 2g
- La protéine: 25g
- Le taux de cholestérol: 200mg
Mots-clés: one pot marry me shrimp and orzo pasta
