This One Pot Pea + Shrimp Orzo is a tasty dish that comes together easily. With juicy shrimp, vibrant green peas, and creamy orzo, it’s a meal that looks as good as it tastes!
I love how everything cooks in one pot, so cleanup is a breeze. Plus, it’s like a hug in a bowl—comfort food that brings a smile! 🍲
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: It’s great for sautéing, but you can also use butter for a richer flavor. If you need to avoid oil, broth works for sautéing too.
Onion: Yellow onions add a sweet touch. If you have red onions or shallots, they can work well too, providing a different flavor profile.
Orzo Pasta: Traditional for this dish, but if you don’t have orzo, try some other small pasta like ditalini or even rice—though cooking time may vary.
Shrimp: Fresh or frozen shrimp both work well. For a budget-friendly option, consider using canned shrimp (just drain them first), or chickpeas for a vegetarian twist!
Turmeric/Saffron: Turmeric is a great low-cost option for color. Saffron is more expensive but provides a distinct taste. If you’re out of both, just skip them—it’ll still taste great!
How Do I Get My Shrimp Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky since they cook quickly. Here’s how to nail it:
- Start with a hot skillet for a good sear.
- Season the shrimp lightly with paprika, salt, and pepper before cooking.
- Cook them for just 2 minutes on each side. Once they turn pink and opaque, they’re done—overcooking makes them rubbery!
Use this technique, and your shrimp will be juicy and delicious every time!
One Pot Pea + Shrimp Orzo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 ½ cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 teaspoon turmeric or a pinch of saffron (optional, for color and flavor)
- 12 oz (about 340 g) medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Lemon slices, for garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 20 minutes to cook, making a total of about 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick, simple, and a wonderful weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onions:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes soft and translucent. This will give your dish a lovely base flavor!
2. Add Garlic and Orzo:
Next, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until the wonderful aroma fills your kitchen. Then, stir in the orzo pasta, cooking it for 1-2 minutes while constantly stirring. This slight toasting enhances its flavor!
3. Mix in Broth and Spices:
Now, pour in the broth and, if you’re using it, add the turmeric or saffron. Stir everything together and bring it to a light simmer. Cover the pan and let it cook for about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally until the orzo is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
4. Cook the Peas:
After the orzo is almost cooked, stir in the frozen peas, cover the pan again, and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the peas are warmed through. They’ll add a pop of color and sweetness!
5. Prepare the Shrimp:
While the peas are cooking, season the shrimp with paprika, salt, and pepper. In a separate small pan over medium-high heat, cook the shrimp for about 2 minutes on each side, until they’re pink and fully cooked. Easy as pie!
6. Combine and Serve:
Return the cooked shrimp to the orzo and pea mixture. Squeeze in the lemon juice and stir gently to combine everything. This adds a fresh brightness to the dish.
Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices for a beautiful finish before serving.
Enjoy your fragrant, flavorful, and easy-to-clean-up One Pot Pea + Shrimp Orzo!
Can I Use Fresh Peas Instead of Frozen?
Yes, fresh peas can be used, but you’ll need to blanch them first to ensure they cook quickly with the orzo. Simply boil them for 1-2 minutes, then shock them in ice water before adding to the dish.
What If I Don’t Have Orzo?
If you don’t have orzo, you can substitute with any small pasta like ditalini or even use rice. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time and amount of broth needed as some grains absorb more liquid than others.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if it seems dry.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can omit the shrimp and substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth. Add some sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas for protein to make it hearty!