Prawn Orzo with Sun Dried Tomatoes Recipe

If you’re craving something that feels like a warm, comforting hug on a plate, look no further than this sensational Prawn Orzo with Sun Dried Tomatoes. Imagine tender, juicy prawns kissed with smoky paprika and garlic, nestled alongside creamy orzo pasta infused with richly tangy sun dried tomatoes, vibrant greens, and a luscious hint of creaminess that ties it all together. This dish manages to balance fresh and bold flavors with textures that keep every bite interesting and satisfying. Whether it’s a weeknight family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe will quickly become one of your go-to favorites, guaranteed to impress without complicated steps.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—each ingredient is carefully selected to enhance texture, flavor, and color, while keeping preparation straightforward. You’ll find this list is full of pantry staples with a few standout elements that truly elevate the dish.

• 1 1/2 lb raw king prawns: Already peeled prawns save time and soak up the spices beautifully.
• 1 tsp paprika powder: Provides a smoky warmth that complements the prawns perfectly.
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a subtle kick of heat if you like things a little spicy.
• 2 tsp garlic powder: Deepens the garlicky flavor without overpowering the dish.
• 1 tsp black pepper: Freshly ground for a touch of sharp spice.
• 1 tsp salt: Enhances all the other flavors in the dish.
• 2 tbsp olive oil: Used for sautéing prawns and garlic, adding richness and a velvety texture.
• 6 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic delivers that irresistible aromatic punch.
• 1 tbsp olive oil: For toasting the sun-dried tomatoes and orzo, infusing flavor into every bite.
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped: Tangy and chewy, they bring a vibrant burst of umami.
• 1 cup orzo (uncooked): This rice-shaped pasta cooks quickly and absorbs the sauce beautifully.
• 2 cups chicken broth: Gives the orzo a rich, savory base as it cooks.
• 1 cup broccoli, finely chopped: Adds a fresh, green crunch and a lovely color contrast.
• 2 cups fresh spinach: Wilts down into the cream sauce for a wholesome touch.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the luxurious, silky sauce that coats the orzo and prawns.
• Salt and black pepper to taste: To balance and brighten the finished dish.

How to Make Prawn Orzo with Sun Dried Tomatoes

Step 1: Season the Prawns

Start by tossing your peeled raw king prawns gently in a bowl with paprika powder, red pepper flakes if using, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. This simple seasoning mix sets the stage for deeply flavorful prawns that will shine in the dish.

Step 2: Sear the Prawns and Garlic

Heat a large pan over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons olive oil with minced garlic. Let the garlic cook just until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Then add the seasoned prawns and cook them for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they turn that perfect pink and develop some beautiful browning. Remove the prawns and set them aside for later.

Step 3: Toast Orzo with Sun Dried Tomatoes

In the same pan, add 1 tablespoon olive oil and chopped sun-dried tomatoes, sautéing for about 30 seconds to release their oils and flavor. Then toss in the uncooked orzo and roast it for about a minute, stirring constantly so every grain gets coated and slightly toasted. This step adds nuttiness and depth to the pasta.

Step 4: Simmer the Orzo with Broth and Veggies

Pour in the chicken broth, giving it a good stir to scrape up any delicious browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Stir in finely chopped broccoli, then cover and reduce heat to let it simmer gently for 7 to 8 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. The orzo will soak up the flavorful broth, expanding and softening perfectly.

Step 5: Finish with Spinach and Cream

Once the orzo is tender, add fresh spinach, heavy cream, and season with salt and black pepper. Stir everything together and cook until the spinach wilts down—about 2 to 3 minutes—introducing a creamy richness that contrasts beautifully with the tangy sun-dried tomatoes.

Step 6: Reintroduce the Prawns

Return the cooked prawns to the pan, gently mixing and warming them through for 2 to 3 minutes. This final step brings all components together, letting flavors meld before serving hot.

How to Serve Prawn Orzo with Sun Dried Tomatoes

Garnishes

sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or basil over your dish just before serving for a burst of color and fresh aroma. A light squeeze of lemon juice brightens every bite, adding a zesty counterpoint to the rich creaminess. For a little extra crunch, sprinkle toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds on top.

Side Dishes

This dish is hearty on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad featuring lemon vinaigrette or a side of garlic bread rounds out the meal perfectly. A chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water with a twist of lime pairs wonderfully and keeps things light and refreshing.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this Prawn Orzo with Sun Dried Tomatoes family-style in a large beautiful skillet to keep things charming and casual. For an elegant dinner, plate it on warm white dishes with prawns fanned on top and a drizzle of olive oil. You can also layer it in small ramekins for individual servings that impress guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Prawn Orzo with Sun Dried Tomatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors tend to deepen overnight, making it even more delicious the next day, though the pasta may absorb more liquid, so you might need to loosen it with a splash of water or broth when reheating.

Freezing

While this dish freezes well, the creamy sauce and cooked spinach can sometimes change texture upon thawing. If you want to freeze, place portions in freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.

Reheating

Rewarm leftovers on the stovetop over low heat, stirring gently and adding a drizzle of chicken broth or cream if it feels too thick. Avoid microwaving directly from frozen to preserve the prawn’s tender texture and keep the cream sauce smooth.

FAQs

Can I use frozen prawns for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to fully thaw them and pat dry before seasoning and cooking to remove excess water and ensure they sear nicely.

What can I substitute for chicken broth?

If you prefer, vegetable broth works well too, especially for a lighter or vegetarian-friendly twist, though prawns themselves add plenty of flavor.

Is sun dried tomato paste a good substitute?

You could use sun dried tomato paste, but since it’s concentrated, reduce the amount and adjust liquids accordingly. Chopped sun dried tomatoes provide a lovely chewy texture that paste lacks.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes! Replace the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative and check the ingredients of your broth to keep it dairy-free.

How spicy is this dish?

The heat level is mild by default, but you can easily adjust by increasing or omitting red pepper flakes according to your taste.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to add a fresh, comfort-food favorite to your repertoire, Prawn Orzo with Sun Dried Tomatoes is a winner every time. It’s easy to prepare, packed with vibrant flavors, and feels just fancy enough for guests but cozy enough for a weeknight. Dive in and enjoy the wonderful blend of textures and tastes—you’ll wonder how you ever lived without this delicious combination!

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