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Tuscan Shrimp Orzo with Spinach

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Tuscan Shrimp Orzo with Spinach is a quick, creamy, and flavorful one-pan dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Tender orzo pasta is simmered in a garlicky, Parmesan-laced Tuscan sauce with sun-dried tomatoes, juicy shrimp, and fresh spinach. This easy shrimp orzo recipe is packed with Italian-inspired flavor and comes together in just 30 minutes.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • ¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
  • 2 cups baby spinach
  • 2½ cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Season shrimp with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook 2–3 minutes per side until pink. Remove and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, add remaining olive oil. Sauté onion and garlic until fragrant and golden.
  4. Stir in orzo and toast for 1 minute.
  5. Add broth, bring to a simmer, and cook 8–10 minutes until orzo is tender. Stir occasionally.
  6. Stir in cream, sun-dried tomatoes, and Parmesan. Mix until creamy.
  7. Add spinach and cook until wilted.
  8. Return shrimp to skillet. Stir in lemon juice.
  9. Garnish with basil or parsley. Serve warm with extra Parmesan.

Notes

  • For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half.
  • Use coconut cream and vegan Parmesan for a dairy-free alternative.
  • Add white wine after sautéing garlic and onion for extra depth.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of broth.
  • Not freezer-friendly due to the cream-based sauce.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookedbymaya.com/tuscan-shrimp-orzo-with-spinach/