One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta Recipe has become one of my go-to meals. The combination of shrimp and orzo pasta creates a delightful dish that is full of flavor and easy to prepare. I remember the first time I made it for a special dinner. My friends were blown away by how delicious it tasted. They couldn’t believe I whipped it up so quickly. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner.
What is One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta?
This dish combines juicy shrimp with orzo pasta, cooked together in one pot for maximum flavor. The creamy sauce brings everything together, making each bite delightful. The name “Marry Me” comes from the idea that this dish is so good, it might just win someone’s heart.
Why You Will Love One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta
- Quick and Easy: This dish is simple to make and comes together in under 30 minutes.
- One Pot Wonder: Cleaning up is a breeze since everything cooks in one pot.
- Flavor Packed: The garlic, lemon, and herbs come together to create a mouthwatering dish.
- Versatile: You can easily customize this recipe with your favorite vegetables.
Ingredients for One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta
To make One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
How to Make One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta
1. Prepare the Shrimp
Start by cleaning the shrimp. Make sure they are peeled and deveined. Pat them dry with a paper towel and season with salt and pepper. This step is essential to enhance their flavor.
2. Sauté the Garlic
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
3. Add the Shrimp
Next, add the seasoned shrimp to the pot. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are pink and opaque. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the pot and set them aside.
4. Cook the Orzo
In the same pot, add the orzo pasta. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the orzo absorbs the liquid and becomes tender.
5. Add Flavorings
Once the orzo is cooked, stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, oregano, and thyme. This will add a fresh and vibrant flavor to the dish. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
6. Combine with Shrimp
Now, return the cooked shrimp to the pot. Gently fold them into the orzo mixture, allowing the flavors to meld together. Cook for another 2 minutes until everything is heated through.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Remove the pot from the heat and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy the delightful One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta with your loved ones.
Tips for One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta
- Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp will give you the best flavor. If using frozen shrimp, make sure they are fully thawed before cooking.
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Keep an eye on the shrimp. Overcooking can lead to a rubbery texture. They cook quickly, so stay attentive.
- Add Vegetables: Feel free to toss in some veggies like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color.
- Adjust Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter dish, reduce the amount of heavy cream or substitute it with half-and-half or milk.
Nutritional Information
This dish is not only delicious but also nutritious. Here’s a rough breakdown of the nutritional content per serving:
- Calories: Approximately 450 kcal
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
Leftovers and Storage
If you have leftovers of this dish, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for 2-3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in a pan over low heat or in the microwave. You might need to add a splash of broth or cream to keep it creamy.
How to Customize One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta
This One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta Recipe is incredibly versatile. Here are some ideas to customize it:
- Different Proteins: Swap shrimp for chicken, scallops, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Different Herbs: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or dill to change the flavor profile.
- Spicy Kick: Add some red pepper flakes for a bit of heat if you like spicy food.
Perfect Pairings
Pair this delicious dish with a light salad or some crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. A crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, complements the flavors beautifully.
One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta Recipe is a fantastic dish that everyone will love. It’s easy to prepare, packed with flavors, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you are cooking for a special someone or enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to impress. I encourage you to try it out and see how it can become a beloved part of your dinner rotation.