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A creamy and rich Tuscan-inspired shrimp orzo dish featuring sun-dried tomatoes, artichokes, and spinach, cooked in one skillet and ready in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb medium to large shrimp (2630 or 3140 count)
  • 1.5 tsp paprika
  • 0.5 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 0.25 tsp salt
  • 0.25 tsp pepper
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 0.5 tsp onion powder
  • 1 cup orzo
  • 0.33 cup sun-dried tomatoes
  • 2 cups chicken stock
  • 14 oz artichoke hearts
  • 4 oz fresh spinach
  • 1 cup cream
  • 0.25 tsp red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Season shrimp with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  3. Sear shrimp about 2 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
  4. In the last 30 seconds of cooking shrimp, add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds.
  5. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
  6. Add sun-dried tomatoes and orzo to the same skillet; toast for 2 minutes, stirring frequently.
  7. Pour in chicken stock; bring to a boil then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 5–10 minutes, stirring occasionally until orzo is tender.
  8. Stir in cream, artichoke hearts, spinach, and the reserved shrimp; cook on low for 2 minutes until spinach wilts and ingredients are heated through.
  9. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.

Notes

Do not overcook the shrimp; remove promptly once pink and firm for best texture., Keep orzo stirring while simmering to avoid sticking and ensure even cooking., Add spinach last to maintain its bright green color and fresh flavor., Allow the orzo to absorb most broth before adding cream to achieve a creamy sauce without being watery., Leftovers can thicken in the fridge; add a splash of chicken stock or cream when reheating to restore creaminess., The orzo base can be pre-cooked and refrigerated up to 24 hours before finishing the dish., Shrimp can be swapped with chicken, tofu, or vegetables as alternatives., Use dairy-free cream or coconut milk and zoodles instead of orzo for dairy-free or gluten-free options.

Nutrition