Introduction
This Garlic Shrimp and Tomatoes dish paired with a creamy orzo is a delightful meal that perfectly balances flavors and textures. The sweetness of the cherry tomatoes complements the savory shrimp, while the creamy orzo adds richness to the plate. This recipe is simple and quick, making it ideal for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients
1 lb. cherry tomatoes
1–2 tablespoons olive oil
1 lb. jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails off
2 tablespoons butter
3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
1 teaspoon coarse kosher salt
8 ounces uncooked orzo
1/2 cup half and half
1/4 cup grated Parmesan
2 tablespoons butter
1/2 teaspoon coarse kosher salt
Lemon juice (optional)
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
20 minutes
Total Time
30 minutes
Yield
Serves 4
Instructions
1. Cook the Orzo: Prepare the orzo according to package directions. Drain, toss with a bit of oil to prevent sticking, and set aside.
2. Soften the Tomatoes: In a pan over medium-high heat, add the cherry tomatoes and olive oil. Cook until the tomatoes soften and their skins blister, about 5 minutes. Cover the pan to minimize splattering.
3. Smash the Tomatoes: Once softened, gently press the tomatoes with the back of a spoon or a flat object to release their juices.
4. Cook the Shrimp: Create a space in the center of the pan and add the shrimp. Season with 1/2 teaspoon salt and cook for approximately 2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque.
5. Add Garlic and Butter: Introduce the sliced garlic, butter, and the remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt to the pan. Stir to combine, allowing the mixture to become saucy and bubbly. Remove from heat and cover to keep warm.
6. Prepare the Creamy Orzo: Mix the cooked orzo with butter, half and half, Parmesan, and lemon juice if using. Stir to combine, warming over low heat if necessary.
7. Assemble the Dish: Serve the creamy orzo on plates, topped with the shrimp and tomato mixture. Garnish with fresh thyme if desired.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Cook the Orzo
Prepare the orzo according to package directions. Drain, toss with a bit of oil to prevent sticking, and set aside.
Soften the Tomatoes
In a pan over medium-high heat, add the cherry tomatoes and olive oil. Cook until the tomatoes soften and their skins blister, about 5 minutes. Cover the pan to minimize splattering.
Smash the Tomatoes
Once softened, gently press the tomatoes with the back of a spoon or a flat object to release their juices.
Cook the Shrimp
Create a space in the center of the pan and add the shrimp. Season with 1/2 teaspoon salt and cook for approximately 2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque.
Add Garlic and Butter
Introduce the sliced garlic, butter, and the remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt to the pan. Stir to combine, allowing the mixture to become saucy and bubbly. Remove from heat and cover to keep warm.
Prepare the Creamy Orzo
Mix the cooked orzo with butter, half and half, Parmesan, and lemon juice if using. Stir to combine, warming over low heat if necessary.
Assemble the Dish
Serve the creamy orzo on plates, topped with the shrimp and tomato mixture. Garnish with fresh thyme if desired.
Notes
Ingredient Quality
Using fresh, high-quality ingredients can significantly enhance the flavor of the dish.
Cooking Time
Ensure not to overcook the shrimp to maintain their tenderness.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs well with a light salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Storage
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
Cook Techniques
Cooking Orzo
To cook orzo, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the uncooked orzo and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and toss with a bit of oil to prevent sticking.
Soften Cherry Tomatoes
In a pan over medium-high heat, add olive oil and cherry tomatoes. Cook until the tomatoes are softened and their skins blister, approximately 5 minutes. You can cover the pan to minimize splattering.
Smashing Tomatoes
Once the cherry tomatoes are softened, use the back of a spoon or a flat object to gently press on them. This action will release their juices, creating a flavorful base for the dish.
Cooking Shrimp
Create a space in the center of the pan once the tomatoes are softened. Add the shrimp, season with salt, and cook for about 2 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque.
Adding Garlic and Butter
Once the shrimp are cooked, add sliced garlic and butter to the pan. Stir to combine and let the mixture become bubbly and saucy, enhancing the flavors of the dish.
Preparing Creamy Orzo
Combine the cooked orzo with butter, half and half, and grated Parmesan. Stir well, adding lemon juice if desired, and warm over low heat if necessary to create a creamy consistency.
Assembling the Dish
To serve, plate the creamy orzo and top it with the shrimp and tomato mixture. Optionally, garnish with fresh thyme for added flavor.
FAQ
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp; just ensure they are fully thawed before cooking for even heat distribution.
What can I substitute for half and half?
You can use a mixture of milk and cream or just heavy cream as a substitute for half and half.
How do I prevent the orzo from becoming sticky?
Tossing the cooked orzo with a little olive oil immediately after draining can help prevent it from sticking together.
Can I add other vegetables to the dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition.
Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the orzo with a gluten-free pasta option, such as quinoa or rice pasta, to make the dish gluten-free.
Conclusion
The Garlic Shrimp and Tomatoes served over Creamy Orzo offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures. This dish brings together the sweetness of blistered cherry tomatoes with the savory notes of shrimp, all enveloped in a rich, creamy orzo base. It’s a satisfying and elegant meal that can be prepared quickly, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Garlic Chicken with Spinach
Swap shrimp for chicken breast, sautéing with garlic and fresh spinach instead of tomatoes for a hearty alternative.
Pesto Orzo Salad
Combine cooked orzo with basil pesto, diced cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella balls for a refreshing salad.
Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta
Toss cooked spaghetti with garlic shrimp, olive oil, lemon zest, and parsley for a zesty pasta dish.
Tomato Basil Risotto
Make risotto using arborio rice cooked slowly in broth, adding cherry tomatoes and fresh basil for a creamy Italian classic.
Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Sauce
Use the garlic shrimp mixture as a filling for tacos topped with a creamy avocado sauce and fresh cilantro.
Vegetable Stir-Fry with Orzo
Stir-fry mixed vegetables and toss them with orzo, soy sauce, and sesame oil for a quick vegetarian option.
Spicy Shrimp Skewers
Marinate shrimp in a spicy garlic mixture, grill on skewers, and serve with a side of orzo or quinoa.
Stuffed Bell Peppers
Reach for bell peppers stuffed with a mix of cooked orzo, ground meat, and tomatoes, topped with cheese and baked until bubbly.
