Shrimp With Orzo And Broccoli
A vibrant shrimp and orzo dish with tender broccoli, feta, and basil, offering fresh, savory flavors perfect for a quick, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large skillet, bring chicken broth, drained and chopped tomatoes, and broccoli to a boil over high heat.
- Add the uncooked orzo; reduce heat to simmer.
- Cover and cook for 7 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add raw, cleaned shrimp, salt, and pepper.
- Return to a simmer; cover and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until shrimp turn pink and broccoli and orzo are tender.
- Remove from heat.
- Stir in feta cheese and crumbled or chopped basil leaves.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream at the end. Fresh or frozen shrimp can be used, but ensure they are fully thawed if frozen. If you prefer a more robust flavor, try adding garlic or onion while sautéing the broccoli. This dish also pairs well with Mediterranean recipes that feature grains.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish warm, garnished with additional feta cheese and fresh basil for a pop of color. It pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or some crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside Barley Pilaf or Rice With Carrots.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of chicken broth to the skillet and warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Avoid microwaving as it may overcook the shrimp.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Shrimp With Orzo And Broccoli contains roughly 141 calories, with 10g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (257% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (32% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (29% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1242mg per serving (54% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but make sure to thaw them completely before adding them to the dish. This ensures even cooking and the best texture. Simply place them in the refrigerator overnight or run them under cold water for a quick thaw.
What can I substitute for orzo?
If you don't have orzo, you can substitute it with other small pasta shapes like ditalini or even couscous. Adjust the cooking time as needed, since different pasta types may require varying cook times to achieve the right texture.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat to this dish, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or diced fresh chilies when cooking the broccoli. This will infuse the dish with a pleasant warmth without overpowering the other flavors.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).