Prawn Orzo Sun Dried Tomatoes

This prawn orzo with sun-dried tomatoes is one of those easy dishes that feels a little fancy. The juicy prawns and tangy tomatoes bring such rich flavor to the creamy orzo. Every bite tastes like comfort with a touch of brightness.

I love making this on busy nights when I still want something special. The orzo cooks fast, and the prawns soak up all that garlicky goodness. It’s quick, cozy, and tastes like something straight out of a restaurant.

The best part? It’s all made in one pan, which means less cleanup. It’s warm, flavorful, and perfect for when I want an easy dinner that still feels like a treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pan Wonder: Everything cooks in a single pan, making cleanup easy.
• Restaurant Quality: The combination of prawns, sun-dried tomatoes, and cream tastes like something from a fancy restaurant.
• Quick Cooking: From start to finish in just 30 minutes.
• Packed with Flavor: Garlic, paprika, and sun-dried tomatoes create layers of taste in every spoonful.
• Nutritious and Filling: Prawns provide protein while broccoli and spinach add vitamins and color.

What You Need to Know Before You Start

Prep Time & Cook Time:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Servings: This recipe serves 4 people as a main dish. Double the ingredients if cooking for a larger group.

Difficulty: Easy. Perfect for beginners and experienced cooks alike.

Required Kitchen Tools

• Large deep skillet or sauté pan with lid
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board
• Bowl for seasoning prawns

Ingredients for Prawn Orzo Sun Dried Tomatoes

This Mediterranean-inspired dish uses simple ingredients that work together to create something delicious. The sun-dried tomatoes add a sweet and tangy flavor, while the cream makes everything rich and smooth. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Prawns:

• 1 pound prawns, peeled and deveined
• 1 teaspoon paprika powder
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Orzo:

• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1 and 1/2 cups orzo pasta
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1/2 cup heavy cream

Variations for Prawn Orzo Sun Dried Tomatoes

• Add Lemon: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the finished dish for brightness.
• Use Different Greens: Try kale or arugula instead of spinach.
• Make It Spicier: Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Add Cheese: Stir in grated Parmesan cheese at the end for extra richness.
• Use Cherry Tomatoes: Replace sun-dried tomatoes with halved cherry tomatoes for a fresher taste.
• Try Different Seafood: Use scallops or chunks of white fish instead of prawns.

How to Make Prawn Orzo Sun Dried Tomatoes Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Season the Prawns

In a bowl, toss the prawns with paprika powder, red pepper flakes, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Make sure each prawn is coated with the spices.

2. Cook the Prawns

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned prawns and cook for 2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and slightly golden. Remove the prawns from the pan and set them aside on a plate.

3. Sauté the Garlic and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for about 1 minute until the garlic smells good. Be careful not to let the garlic burn.

4. Cook the Orzo

Add the orzo pasta to the skillet and stir it with the garlic and tomatoes for 1 minute. Pour in the chicken broth and bring everything to a boil. Lower the heat to medium and let the orzo simmer for about 8 minutes, stirring now and then.

5. Add the Vegetables

When the orzo is almost tender, add the broccoli florets. Cook for 3 minutes until the broccoli turns bright green and becomes slightly soft. Stir in the fresh spinach and let it wilt for about 1 minute.

6. Make It Creamy

Pour in the heavy cream and stir everything together. Let it simmer for 2 minutes until the sauce thickens a bit and coats the orzo.

7. Return the Prawns

Add the cooked prawns back to the skillet. Stir gently to warm them through for about 1 minute. Taste and add more salt or pepper if needed.

Serving and Decoration

Spoon the creamy prawn orzo into shallow bowls. You can add a drizzle of olive oil on top and sprinkle some extra red pepper flakes if you like it spicy. Fresh basil leaves or parsley make a nice green garnish. Serve with crusty bread on the side to soak up the delicious sauce.

How to Serve Prawn Orzo Sun Dried Tomatoes

This dish works well as a complete meal on its own, but you can also serve it with:

• Garlic Bread: Perfect for dipping into the creamy sauce.
• Side Salad: A simple green salad with vinaigrette balances the richness.
• Roasted Vegetables: Zucchini or bell peppers make great additions.
• White Wine: A crisp Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc pairs nicely with the prawns.

Storing Prawn Orzo Sun Dried Tomatoes

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. The orzo may absorb some liquid as it sits.
• Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave it in 30-second intervals, stirring between each one.
• Freezing: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, as the cream sauce and prawns can change texture when frozen.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Don’t Overcook the Prawns: Prawns cook very quickly. They’re done when they turn pink and curl up slightly.
• Stir the Orzo Often: This prevents it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
• Use Quality Sun-Dried Tomatoes: The ones packed in oil have more flavor than the dry-packed variety.
• Add Broth Gradually: If the orzo looks too dry while cooking, add a bit more chicken broth.
• Fresh Spinach Works Best: Baby spinach wilts beautifully and doesn’t need chopping.
• Let It Rest: Allow the dish to sit for 2 minutes after cooking so the sauce can thicken.

Nutrition

Nutritional values are approximate and based on one serving (1/4 of the recipe).

Prawn Orzo Sun Dried Tomatoes FAQs

Conclusion

Prawn Orzo Sun Dried Tomatoes brings together simple ingredients to create a meal that feels special. The creamy sauce, tender prawns, and flavorful orzo make every bite satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for your family on a weeknight or making dinner for guests, this recipe delivers great taste without complicating things in the kitchen.