This One-Pot Shrimp Orzo Recipe with Harissa and Tahini is made with shrimp, onion, bell pepper, orzo, white wine, harissa and tahini.
Harissa is a spicy chili paste that is super versatile. You can add harissa on your meats and eggs. The incorporation of tahini gives the dish the creaminess it deserves.
This One-Pot Shrimp Orzo with Harissa and Tahini requires a lot of focus when making it. Everything is done in one-pot, which makes clean up that much easier. You start off by sautéing the veggies, cooking the orzo in harissa and broth, and finally cooking the shrimp as well as adding the tahini. Tahini is very similar to the consistency of peanut butter, so adding tahini in the liquid will make it creamy.
If you love this recipe, feel free to try my Creamy Shrimp in Coconut Sauce or my Healthy Sweet and Sour Shrimp Recipe.
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What is Shrimp Orzo?
Shrimp Orzo is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines shrimp and orzo pasta as the main ingredients. Orzo is a type of pasta that resembles grains of rice or barley. It is often used in Mediterranean and Italian cuisines.
Shrimp Orzo typically involves sautéing shrimp with various aromatics and seasonings, then combining them with cooked orzo pasta. The dish is often enhanced with ingredients like garlic, onions, herbs and lemon juice. The result is a hearty and satisfying dish that showcases the flavors of the shrimp and complements them with the texture and taste of the orzo pasta. I ended up adding a twist to this recipe by using Harissa and Tahini, for a nice spicy and creamy balance.
Why you will love this recipe
- Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of shrimp, red onion, red bell pepper, garlic, cumin, harissa paste, tahini, lemon juice, and fresh parsley creates a symphony of flavors. The spices and seasonings add depth and complexity to the dish, while the tahini and lemon juice provide a creamy and tangy element.
- Versatility: This Shrimp Orzo can be served as a main course or a side dish, making it versatile for different occasions. It pairs well with a variety of side dishes, such as salads or roasted vegetables, and can be enjoyed for lunch or dinner.
- Easy to Make: The recipe is straightforward and easy to follow, making it accessible to both beginner and experienced cooks. With simple techniques and readily available ingredients, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal.
Shrimp Orzo Recipe Ingredients
You'll only need a few simple ingredients to make this. The exact measurements are listed in the recipe card below. Here's an overview of what you'll need:
- Shrimp
- Olive oil
- Red onion
- Red bell pepper
- Orzo
- Garlic
- Cumin
- White wine
- Harissa
- Broth
- Tahini
- Lemon
- Parsley
See recipe card for Shrimp Orzo Recipe quantities.
How to make Shrimp Orzo
In a bowl, toss the shrimp in with salt and pepper for 15 minutes max. Set aside on a plate.In a large deep saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and bell pepper and cook until soft, about 4-5 minutes. Pour in the orzo and toast for 3 minutes, stirring frequently. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about a minute longer.
Sprinkle the cumin and the white wine, until the wine has evaporated, about 4 minutes. Pour in the harissa paste as well as the broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer, cover and cook for 10 minutes, until the orzo is al dente.
Uncover and add the shrimp into the simmering sauce & orzo (there should still be liquid) as well as the tahini and cover again and keep cooking for another 3 minutes, until the shrimp is pink and opaque.
Add the lemon juice and garnish with parsley.
What to serve with Shrimp Orzo
- Green Salad: Serve Shrimp Orzo alongside a fresh green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette dressing. The refreshing salad provides a contrast to the warm and flavorful Shrimp Orzo. Check out my Green Goddess Salad.
- Garlic Bread: Crusty garlic bread is a classic accompaniment to pasta dishes. Serve warm slices of garlic bread on the side to complement the flavors of the Shrimp Orzo. You can make your own by toasting sliced bread with butter and garlic, or use store-bought garlic bread.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables such as asparagus, zucchini, or roasted cherry tomatoes can add vibrant colors and flavors to the meal. Toss the vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast them in the oven until tender and slightly caramelized. Check out my Grilled Vegetables Recipe.
- Roasted Potatoes: Roasted potatoes, whether crispy wedges or creamy baby potatoes, can be a satisfying side dish. Toss the potatoes with olive oil, garlic, and herbs such as rosemary or thyme, then roast until golden and tender.
Substitutions
- Shrimp: Chicken: Instead of shrimp, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breast or chicken thighs. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and cook them until they are fully cooked and tender. Chicken will add a different flavor and texture to the dish Tofu: For a vegetarian or vegan option, substitute shrimp with firm tofu. Cut the tofu into cubes and sauté or bake until golden and crispy before adding it to the orzo. Tofu will provide a protein-rich alternative with a softer texture.
- Olive Oil: Vegetable Oil: Vegetable oil is a versatile substitute for olive oil. It has a mild flavor and a high smoke point, making it suitable for sautéing and cooking the ingredients.
- Red Onion: Yellow Onion: Yellow onion can be used as a substitute for red onion. It has a milder flavor, but it will still add sweetness and depth to the dish when sautéed.
- Red Bell Pepper: Yellow Bell Pepper: If you don't have red bell pepper, you can use yellow bell pepper instead. It will provide a similar crunchy texture and a slightly different flavor.
- Orzo: Rice: If you don't have orzo, you can substitute it with rice. Use long-grain rice or even basmati rice for a similar texture. Cook the rice separately according to the package instructions and then incorporate it into the dish.
- Garlic: Garlic Powder: If you don't have fresh garlic cloves, you can use garlic powder as a substitute. Keep in mind that the flavor intensity will be slightly different, so adjust the quantity to taste.
- Cumin: Paprika: Paprika can be used as a substitute for cumin. It will add a warm, slightly smoky flavor to the dish. Use the same quantity as the cumin called for in the recipe.
- White Wine: Chicken or Vegetable Broth: If you prefer not to use white wine, you can replace it with an equal amount of chicken or vegetable broth. This will still provide some moisture and flavor to the dish.
- Harissa: Red Pepper Flakes or Hot Sauce: If you don't have harissa paste, you can use red pepper flakes or your favorite hot sauce as a substitute. Adjust the quantity according to your desired level of spiciness.
- Broth: Water: If you don't have broth, you can use water as a substitute. Keep in mind that the flavor of the dish may be slightly milder without the added depth from the broth.
- Tahini: Peanut Butter: If you don't have tahini, you can use natural peanut butter as a substitute. It will provide a similar creamy and nutty flavor.
- Lemon: Vinegar: If you don't have lemon, you can use vinegar (such as white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar) as a substitute. The acidity will add a tangy flavor to the dish, but use it sparingly as it is more potent than lemon juice.
- Parsley: Cilantro or Basil: If you don't have parsley, you can use fresh cilantro or basil as a substitute. Both herbs will add a fresh and aromatic element to the dish.
Shrimp Orzo Recipe Variations
- Mediterranean Shrimp Orzo: Add Mediterranean flavors by incorporating ingredients like Kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, feta cheese, and fresh basil or oregano. Toss them in with the cooked shrimp and orzo for a burst of Mediterranean goodness.
- Creamy Shrimp Orzo: Create a creamy version by stirring in a few tablespoons of cream cheese, grated Parmesan, or heavy cream into the cooked orzo and shrimp mixture. This will give the dish a rich and velvety texture.
- Spicy Shrimp Orzo: If you enjoy heat, spice up your dish by adding crushed red pepper flakes or chili powder along with the other seasonings. You can also incorporate diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
- Coconut Shrimp Orzo: Give your Shrimp Orzo a tropical twist by adding a splash of coconut milk to the dish. This will impart a subtle coconut flavor and creamy texture. You can also sprinkle shredded coconut on top for garnish.
- Pesto Shrimp Orzo: Toss cooked shrimp and orzo with homemade or store-bought pesto sauce for a burst of vibrant flavors. The basil, garlic, and Parmesan in the pesto will pair wonderfully with the shrimp.
Equipment
- Large Pot: A large pot is required to cook the orzo pasta. Ensure it's big enough to hold the pasta and provide enough space for boiling water.
- Skillet or Sauté Pan: You'll need a skillet or sauté pan to cook the shrimp and sauté the vegetables. Choose a pan with enough surface area to accommodate the ingredients without overcrowding.
- Cutting Board: A cutting board is essential for prepping ingredients like the red onion, red bell pepper, and garlic cloves. Make sure it's large enough to hold and chop the ingredients comfortably.
- Chef's Knife: A sharp chef's knife is necessary for chopping and mincing ingredients such as the red onion, red bell pepper, and garlic cloves. A good-quality knife will make the prep work easier and safer.
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula: A wooden spoon or spatula is useful for stirring and sautéing the shrimp, vegetables, and orzo.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial in cooking, so having a set of measuring cups and spoons is essential to measure ingredients like the white wine, broth, and spices.
- Lemon Squeezer (optional): If you prefer using fresh lemon juice, a lemon squeezer can be helpful to extract the juice without seeds.
- Serving Dish: Choose a serving dish or plate to present your delicious Shrimp Orzo. It can be a large platter or individual plates for serving.
How to store Shrimp Orzo
To store my Shrimp Orzo Recipe, follow these steps:
- Cool Down: Allow the Shrimp Orzo to cool down to room temperature before storing it. Leaving it out for too long at room temperature can promote bacterial growth, so it's important to refrigerate it promptly.
- Storage Container: Transfer the Shrimp Orzo to an airtight container or airtight storage bags. Ensure that the container or bag is clean and free from any contaminants.
- Refrigeration: Place the sealed container or bag of Shrimp Orzo in the refrigerator. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Ensure that the refrigerator is set to the appropriate temperature (below 40°F or 4°C) to keep the food fresh.
- Reheating: When you're ready to enjoy the leftover Shrimp Orzo, reheat it thoroughly before serving. You can reheat it in a microwave-safe dish in the microwave, or you can warm it up on the stovetop in a skillet or sauté pan. Add a little bit of water or broth if needed to prevent it from drying out.
Shrimp Orzo Recipe Top tips
- Season the Shrimp: Before cooking the shrimp, season it generously with salt and pepper. This will enhance the flavor of the shrimp and ensure it's well-seasoned throughout.
- Don't Overcook the Orzo: When cooking the orzo pasta, follow the package instructions and cook it until it's al dente, which means it should have a slight bite to it. Overcooking the orzo can lead to a mushy texture, so keep a close eye on it while boiling.
- Toast the Orzo: For added flavor and texture, consider toasting the orzo before cooking it. Heat a little olive oil in the skillet or pot, add the dry orzo, and sauté it until it becomes slightly golden and aromatic. Then proceed with cooking it in broth or water.
- Adjust the Spice Level: Harissa paste adds heat to the dish, but the spiciness can vary depending on the brand and personal preference. Start with a smaller amount of harissa paste and adjust it according to your desired level of spiciness. You can always add more if needed.
- Balance the Flavors: Taste the Shrimp Orzo before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, lemon juice, or harissa paste to achieve a well-balanced and flavorful dish.
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Just before serving, sprinkle the Shrimp Orzo with fresh chopped parsley or other herbs like basil or cilantro. This will add a pop of freshness and enhance the presentation.
Shrimp Orzo Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This One-Pot Shrimp Orzo Recipe with Harissa and Tahini is made with shrimp, onion, bell pepper, orzo, white wine, harissa and tahini.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound medium to large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Salt and pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium red onion, diced
- 1 medium red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup orzo
- 3 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ⅓ cup dry white wine
- ¼ cup harissa paste
- 1 cup broth (chicken or vegetable)
- ¼ cup well stirred tahini
- Juice of ½ lemon
- ¼ cup fresh chopped parsley
Instructions
- In a bowl, toss the shrimp in with salt and pepper for 15 minutes max. Set aside on a plate.
- In a large deep saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and bell pepper and cook until soft, about 4-5 minutes. Add the orzo and toast for 3 minutes, stirring frequently. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about a minute longer.
- Add the cumin and the white wine, until the wine has evaporated, about 4 minutes.
- Pour in the harissa paste, salt, as well as the broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer, cover and cook for 10 minutes, until the orzo is al dente.
- Uncover and add the shrimp into the simmering sauce & orzo (there should still be liquid) as well as the tahini and cover again and keep cooking for another 3 minutes, until the shrimp is pink and opaque.
- Add the lemon juice and garnish with parsley.
Notes
- First focus on cooking the orzo, then on the shrimp. Shrimp cooks fairly quickly so always be watching and do not overcook.
- Season the Shrimp: Before cooking the shrimp, season it generously with salt and pepper. This will enhance the flavor of the shrimp and ensure it's well-seasoned throughout.
- Don't Overcook the Orzo: When cooking the orzo pasta, follow the package instructions and cook it until it's al dente, which means it should have a slight bite to it. Overcooking the orzo can lead to a mushy texture, so keep a close eye on it while boiling.
- Toast the Orzo: For added flavor and texture, consider toasting the orzo before cooking it. Heat a little olive oil in the skillet or pot, add the dry orzo, and sauté it until it becomes slightly golden and aromatic. Then proceed with cooking it in broth or water.
- Adjust the Spice Level: Harissa paste adds heat to the dish, but the spiciness can vary depending on the brand and personal preference. Start with a smaller amount of harissa paste and adjust it according to your desired level of spiciness. You can always add more if needed.
- Balance the Flavors: Taste the Shrimp Orzo before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, lemon juice, or harissa paste to achieve a well-balanced and flavorful dish.
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Just before serving, sprinkle the Shrimp Orzo with fresh chopped parsley or other herbs like basil or cilantro. This will add a pop of freshness and enhance the presentation.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1
- Calories: 348.1
- Sugar: 2.1 g
- Sodium: 447.0 mg
- Fat: 14.5 g
- Saturated Fat: 3.3 g
- Carbohydrates: 33.7 g
- Fiber: 4.3 g
- Protein: 22.4 g
- Cholesterol: 127.5 mg
Food safety
- Cook to a minimum temperature of 165 °F (74 °C)
- Do not use the same utensils on cooked food, that previously touched raw meat
- Wash hands after touching raw meat
- Don't leave food sitting out at room temperature for extended periods
- Never leave cooking food unattended
- Use oils with high smoking point to avoid harmful compounds
- Always have good ventilation when using a gas stove
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