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Shrimp Orzo Recipe


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  • Author: Maxine Dubois
  • 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
  • 1/3 cup dry white wine
  • 1/4 cup harissa paste
  • 1 cup broth (chicken or vegetable)
  • 1/4 cup well stirred tahini
  • Juice of ½ lemon
  • 1/4 cup fresh chopped parsley

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, toss the shrimp in with salt and pepper for 15 minutes max. Set aside on a plate.
  2. 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.
  3. Add the cumin and the white wine, until the wine has evaporated, about 4 minutes.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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