Craving a restaurant-quality meal that's ready in just 30 minutes? Get ready to transform your kitchen into a Spanish culinary paradise with our Speedy Shrimp and Orzo Paella! This mouthwatering dish combines the vibrant flavors of traditional paella with the convenience of a quick weeknight meal. Imagine succulent shrimp, perfectly cooked orzo, and a symphony of aromatic spices that will transport your taste buds straight to the coastal regions of Spain – all without spending hours in the kitchen!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Spanish
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 1 cup of orzo pasta, 1 lb of peeled and deveined shrimp, 1 diced bell pepper, 1 chopped onion, 2 minced cloves of garlic, 2 cups of chicken broth, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, salt and pepper to taste, and 1/4 cup of freshly chopped parsley.
- In a large skillet or a paella pan, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and diced bell pepper. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and the onion becomes translucent.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Stir in the orzo pasta and smoked paprika, mixing well to coat the pasta with the flavors from the vegetables and spices. Allow the orzo to toast slightly in the pan for about 1 minute.
- Pour in the chicken broth and season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Once the orzo is cooked, gently fold in the shrimp, distributing them evenly throughout the dish. Cover the skillet again and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque.
- Remove the skillet from heat and let it sit, covered, for a couple of minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Before serving, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary.
- Serve the Speedy Shrimp and Orzo Paella warm, garnished with extra parsley if desired. Enjoy your delicious, quick Spanish-inspired meal!
Tips
- Choose Fresh Shrimp: For the best flavor and texture, use fresh, high-quality shrimp. If using frozen, ensure they are completely thawed and patted dry before cooking.
- Don't Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly and can become tough if overdone. Look for a pink color and opaque appearance, which typically takes 3-5 minutes.
- Toast the Orzo: Take a moment to toast the orzo with the spices before adding liquid. This step enhances the nutty flavor and helps the pasta absorb the broth more effectively.
- Use Smoked Paprika: The key to authentic paella flavor is smoked paprika. Don't substitute – this spice gives the dish its characteristic depth and warmth.
- Let it Rest: After cooking, let the dish sit for a couple of minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the orzo to absorb any remaining liquid.
- Garnish Generously: Fresh parsley isn't just for looks – it adds a bright, fresh flavor that cuts through the richness of the dish. Pro Tip: For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a pinch of saffron or a splash of white wine when cooking the orzo for an even more authentic paella experience!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 180mg
