This One Pot Pea and Shrimp Orzo is a simple dish packed with fresh peas and juicy shrimp, all mixed in a cozy, creamy sauce. It’s perfect for a quick dinner without the fuss of multiple pots!
Who wouldn’t love a meal that only dirties one pot? I always feel like a kitchen wizard when I whip this up. Plus, the flavors mingle so well, it’s hard to resist a second helping!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Medium shrimp are perfect for this dish. If you have a shellfish allergy, try chicken or tofu instead for a different protein. Canned chickpeas are another great vegetarian option!
Orzo Pasta: This small rice-shaped pasta cooks quickly and absorbs flavors nicely. If you don’t have orzo, you can use any small pasta like ditalini or even quinoa for a gluten-free version.
Frozen Peas: Frozen peas are convenient and easy to use. You can substitute fresh peas, but they may take a minute longer to cook. If you’re not a pea fan, consider baby spinach or chopped green beans instead.
Chicken Broth: You can use vegetable broth for a vegetarian twist. If you prefer homemade, a quick vegetable stock works well. Remember that low-sodium options help control saltiness!
Lemon Juice: This adds brightness to your dish. If you don’t have fresh lemons, a splash of vinegar or a bit of lemon zest can enhance the flavor too.
How Can You Avoid Overcooking the Orzo?
Cooking orzo perfectly can be tricky. The goal is to get a firm yet tender texture—no mushy pasta here! Follow these simple steps:
- Boil the broth before adding orzo to help it cook evenly.
- Keep an eye on the time. Start checking for doneness around the 8-minute mark.
- Stir often to prevent it from sticking together. A little stirring goes a long way!
- If it looks too dry before it’s ready, you can always add a splash more broth or water.
By using these methods, you’ll maintain the perfect bite of orzo, making your One Pot Pea and Shrimp Orzo a joyful meal! Happy cooking!
How to Make One Pot Pea + Shrimp Orzo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 1 lb (about 450g) medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 3 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Juice of 1 lemon (optional, for brightness)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful meal takes about 25-30 minutes to make from start to finish. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping your ingredients, and the cooking time will be about 15-20 minutes. It’s quick, simple, and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Shrimp:
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the shrimp to the pot. Season them with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook the shrimp for about 2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the pot and set them aside on a plate.
2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
In the same pot, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the chopped onion and sauté it until it becomes translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it is fragrant.
3. Toast the Orzo:
Add the orzo pasta to the pot and stir it around to coat it in the oil. Toast the orzo lightly for about 2 minutes. This gives it a nice nutty flavor.
4. Add the Broth:
Pour in the chicken broth and give everything a good stir. Make sure to scrape off any bits stuck to the bottom of the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Simmer the Orzo:
Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 8-10 minutes. Remember to stir occasionally to prevent the orzo from sticking to the bottom.
6. Add the Peas:
When the orzo is nearly cooked and most of the liquid is absorbed, stir in the frozen peas. Cook uncovered for another 2-3 minutes until the peas are heated through and the orzo is tender.
7. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked shrimp to the pot. Add the chopped parsley and the optional lemon juice, mixing everything well. Heat through for another 1-2 minutes until everything is warmed up again.
8. Season to Taste:
Now it’s time to taste your dish! Adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if you like it a bit zesty.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your One Pot Pea and Shrimp Orzo with extra chopped parsley for a fresh look. Serve it warm and enjoy this easy, flavorful meal!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thoroughly thaw the frozen shrimp before cooking. You can thaw them overnight in the fridge or place them in a sealed bag and submerge it in cold water for a quick thaw. Pat the shrimp dry before seasoning and cooking.
What If I Don’t Have Orzo?
No problem! You can use any small pasta like ditalini or even couscous as a substitute. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as different pasta varieties may require adjustments.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish up until step 6, then cool it down quickly, transfer the orzo and peas to an airtight container, and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to serve, reheat on the stove, adding a little broth or water to loosen it up as needed.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. You may need to add a splash of water or broth to revive the texture!
