Oh, let me tell you about my latest culinary obsession! One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta is not just a mouthful of a name; it’s a delicious and heartfelt dish that I’ve come to adore. I first whipped it up on a whim for a gathering of friends. Everyone kept asking for the recipe, with dreamy eyes and satisfied sighs—hence the funny name! It’s the kind of dish that can make even a casual dinner feel extra special, and honestly, who wouldn’t want to be “married” to something so scrumptious?
There’s something truly comforting about a one-pot meal. Not only does it save me from mountains of dishes, but it also allows the flavors to meld beautifully, like they’re working together on a lifelong journey to delight your taste buds. If you’re looking for a quick yet elegant weeknight dinner, this is it! Let’s dive into what makes this dish so special, shall we?
What’s in One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta?
Shrimp: The star of the show! I prefer using large, peeled, and deveined shrimp for that meaty texture. Plus, they cook in mere minutes and absorb so much flavor.
Orzo Pasta: This cute little pasta looks like rice but cooks up similarly to traditional pasta. It’s the perfect base to soak in all the lovely flavors from the broth and spices.
Chicken Broth: A rich, savory base that provides depth to the dish. Homemade is best, of course, but store-bought works like a charm for a quick meal—just look for low-sodium options.
Garlic: Because garlic makes everything better, right? It gives a fragrant kick that elevates the entire dish. Freshly minced garlic is my go-to, but granulated garlic can work in a pinch.
Tomatoes: I like using sun-dried tomatoes for a concentrated flavor, but diced fresh or canned tomatoes also add a juicy burst of freshness.
Parmesan Cheese: This cheesy goodness brings a creamy, salty richness that ties everything together perfectly.
Spinach: A handful of baby spinach adds a pop of color and nutrients. Plus, it wilts beautifully into the dish, making it look even more inviting!
Spices: A blend of Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper for that perfect zest. Adjust them based on your taste preference—spice lovers, don’t hold back!
Is One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta Good for You?
You might be surprised to know that this delicious dish has its perks!
Shrimp: Packed with protein and low in calories, shrimp is also a great source of selenium and vitamin B12, making it a healthy choice, especially when you’re watching your weight.
Orzo Pasta: While it offers quick carbs for energy, it’s best to watch your portions if you’re mindful of carbs in your diet. Whole grain orzo can be a good alternative if you want extra fiber.
Spinach: This leafy green is a powerhouse of vitamins! It’s rich in iron, vitamin C, and antioxidants—perfect for boosting your nutrition while enjoying a delicious meal.
That said, you might want to consider moderation with the Parmesan cheese if you’re watching your sodium intake. Remember, balance is key!
Ingredients List
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (or 1 can diced tomatoes)
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cups baby spinach
– 1 tsp Italian seasoning
– ½ tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
**Serves:** 4-6 people
How to Make One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta?
1. In a large pot or saucepan, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant—trust me, your kitchen will smell divine!
2. Toss in the sun-dried tomatoes (or canned tomatoes), and let them mingle with the garlic for another minute.
3. Add the orzo pasta and chicken broth to the pot. Bring it to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally so that the orzo doesn’t stick.
4. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 10 minutes or until the orzo is cooked al dente and the liquid has mostly absorbed.
5. Stir in the shrimp, spinach, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and firm.
6. Finally, mix in the Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Give it a final taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil if you like.
Delicious Tips and Variations!
– **Make it Creamier:** Want to elevate it? Add a splash of heavy cream before serving for a rich, creamy twist!
– **Veggie Boost:** Feel free to throw in your favorite veggies—bell peppers, zucchini, or even mushrooms could be delightful!
– **Seafood Swap:** If shrimp isn’t your thing or you want to try something different, this recipe works well with scallops or even chunks of fish.
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve come back to this recipe. It’s quick, easy, and bursts with flavor. I really hope you give One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta a try! When you do, please let me know how it turns out. I’m eager to hear your thoughts and any little twists you add! Happy cooking!
