Prawn Orzo with Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe
A flavorful and creamy prawn orzo dish infused with sun-dried tomatoes, fresh vegetables, and a blend of spices. This quick one-pan meal combines tender king prawns, roasted orzo, and a rich sauce, making it a perfect weeknight dinner that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Halal
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
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup uncooked orzo
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup broccoli, finely chopped
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Season the Prawns: In a bowl, combine the king prawns with paprika powder, red pepper flakes, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Toss gently to ensure the prawns are evenly coated with the spices.
- Cook Garlic and Prawns: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the seasoned prawns and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink. Remove the prawns from the pan and set aside.
- Sauté Sun-Dried Tomatoes: In the same pan, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for 30 seconds to release their flavor.
- Toast the Orzo: Add the uncooked orzo to the pan with the sun-dried tomatoes. Roast the orzo for 1 minute, stirring thoroughly to coat the pasta with the oils and spices.
- Add Broth and Broccoli: Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the pan to lift any browned bits. Stir in the chopped broccoli. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 7-8 minutes, stirring 2-3 times to prevent sticking.
- Wilt Spinach and Add Cream: Once the orzo is tender, stir in the fresh spinach, heavy cream, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Reheat Prawns and Serve: Return the cooked prawns to the pan, warming them through for 2-3 minutes. Mix well and serve immediately.
Notes
- Frozen prawns can be used but ensure they are fully thawed before cooking.
- Substitute chicken or scallops for prawns if preferred.
- For a plant-based version, use vegetable broth and substitute heavy cream with cashew or coconut cream.
- Sun-dried tomatoes add essential flavor; if unavailable, oven-baked cherry tomatoes are a good alternative.
- You can swap orzo for short-grain rice to create a risotto-style dish.
- Vegetable alternatives like cauliflower, zucchini, or peas can replace broccoli.
- For a lighter cream option, use half-and-half.
- Adjust red pepper flakes according to your preferred spice level.
Keywords: prawn orzo, sun-dried tomatoes, creamy pasta, quick dinner, seafood pasta, healthy prawn recipe
