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Prawn Orzo with Sun Dried Tomatoes Recipe

Prawn Orzo with Sun Dried Tomatoes Recipe

4.9 from 5 reviews

This Prawn Orzo with Sun Dried Tomatoes is a flavorful and hearty one-pan meal combining succulent king prawns seasoned with aromatic spices and a creamy orzo pasta cooked with sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, and broccoli. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that feels indulgent yet wholesome.

Ingredients

Scale

Prawns

  • 1 1/2 lb raw king prawns, peeled
  • 1 tsp paprika powder
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced

Orzo Pasta

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
  • 1 cup orzo, uncooked
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup broccoli, finely chopped
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Season Prawns: In a bowl, combine the raw king prawns with paprika powder, optional red pepper flakes, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Toss gently to ensure the prawns are evenly coated with the spices.
  2. Cook Prawns: Heat a large pan over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons olive oil and minced garlic, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the seasoned prawns and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink. Remove from the pan and set aside.
  3. Sauté Sun-Dried Tomatoes: In the same pan, add 1 tablespoon olive oil and the chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for approximately 30 seconds to release their flavors.
  4. Roast Orzo: Add the uncooked orzo to the pan with the sun-dried tomatoes. Roast for about 1 minute, stirring continuously to coat the orzo in oil and spices.
  5. Add Broth and Broccoli: Pour in the chicken broth and stir well, scraping the bottom of the pan to lift any browned bits. Mix in the finely chopped broccoli thoroughly.
  6. Simmer Orzo: When the broth begins to bubble, reduce the heat to low and cover the pan with a lid. Cook for 7-8 minutes, stirring 2-3 times during cooking to prevent sticking, until the orzo softens.
  7. Add Spinach and Cream: Once orzo is tender, stir in fresh spinach, heavy cream, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the mixture is creamy.
  8. Reintroduce Prawns: Place the cooked prawns back into the pan with the orzo mixture. Cook together for an additional 2-3 minutes to warm through.
  9. Serve: Serve hot as a comforting and flavorful meal.

Notes

  • If the pasta mixture becomes too thick, gradually add water to loosen the consistency.
  • If using frozen prawns, ensure they are fully thawed before cooking to avoid uneven cooking.
  • For a spicier dish, increase the amount of red pepper flakes.

Nutrition

Keywords: prawn orzo, sun-dried tomatoes, creamy orzo, Mediterranean seafood pasta, easy dinner, one-pan meal, spicy prawns, healthy pasta dish