Skillet Shrimp with Orzo, Feta, and Asparagus
Try this Skillet Shrimp with Orzo, Feta, and Asparagus recipe.
Try this Skillet Shrimp with Orzo, Feta, and Asparagus recipe.
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
- 1 cup (about 5 ounces) whole wheat orzo
- 1 1/2 tablespoons vegetable or canola oil plus more for the pasta
- 2 medium cloves garlic minced (about 2 teaspoons)
- 1 bunch asparagus ends trimmed and roughly chopped i
- 1 1/2 pounds peeled and deveined medium shrimp
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
- 4 tablespoons fresh juice from 2 lemons
- Carbohydrate 1.28245125 g
- Cholesterol 19.5224999976034 mg
- Fat 10.1597520044952 g
- Fiber 0.0433799987465143 g
- Protein 2.78316375 g
- Saturated Fat 4.20873442515195 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (201g)
- Sodium 821.474699974352 mg
- Sugar 1.23907125125349 g
- Trans Fat 0.472565850043405 g
- Calories 106 calories
Step-by-step
- Fill the skillet 2/3rds of the way with salted water and bring to a boil over high heat.
- Add the orzo and cook according to package instructions until it's al dente.
- Drain and set aside, transfer to a bowl, and toss with a little vegetable or canola oil.
- Wipe out skillet and return to medium high heat.
- Add oil and heat until shimmering.
- Add garlic and chili flakes and cook, stirring, until fragrant but not browned, about 1 minute.
- Add the asparagus, season with salt and pepper and stir to coat the asparagus.
- Cook until the asparagus is tender but retains a crisp bite, 3 to 4 minutes.
- Move the asparagus to the sides of the pan and add the shrimp.
- Cook, turning shrimp occasionally, until pink and opaque, about 4 minutes total.
- Add the orzo back to the pan, stirring to combine, along with most of the basil, the lemon juice, extra-virgin olive oil and feta.
- Toss to combine, allow orzo to heat through, season to taste with more salt and pepper as desired, and serve immediately, topped with remaining basil.
A Weeknight Delight: Skillet Shrimp with Orzo, Feta, and Asparagus
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a healthy and delicious dinner can feel like a Herculean task. Between school pick-ups, work deadlines, and the general chaos of family life, whipping up something from scratch often feels impossible. But I refuse to let my family eat processed food every night. That's why I'm always on the hunt for quick, easy, and satisfying recipes, and this Skillet Shrimp with Orzo, Feta, and Asparagus is a winner! It's ready in under 30 minutes, requires minimal cleanup (a huge plus!), and packs a flavor punch that will leave everyone happy.
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. It's a one-pan wonder, meaning less time spent washing dishes—a precious commodity in my household. I love how the bright, fresh flavors of the asparagus and lemon complement the salty feta and succulent shrimp. The orzo provides a hearty base, absorbing all the delicious juices from the pan. It's a perfect balance of textures and tastes, satisfying even the pickiest eaters in my family. I often double the recipe to have leftovers for lunch the next day. It reheats beautifully and tastes just as good the second time around. I find this dish is super versatile too. If I don't have asparagus, I use broccoli or green beans. Sometimes, I'll add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick, depending on my family's mood. This recipe has become a staple in our weeknight dinners, and I hope it becomes a favorite in your kitchen too!
Beyond the Dinner Table: This recipe isn't just about quick weeknight meals; it's about creating moments. The smell of garlic and shrimp sizzling in the pan instantly transforms my kitchen into a cozy haven. While the dish cooks, I'll often put on some music and let the children help with small tasks—chopping basil, setting the table. These little moments, amidst the flurry of everyday life, are what make cooking worthwhile. It's more than just sustenance; it's connection, it’s family time, and it's the heart of our home. This simple skillet dish, surprisingly, has become a source of joy and warmth. It's a testament to the fact that even amidst the busiest of lives, we can still find time to nourish our bodies and souls.
Tips and Tricks for Success:
- Prep Ahead: Chop the asparagus and garlic ahead of time to speed up the cooking process.
- Don't Overcook the Shrimp: Overcooked shrimp becomes rubbery. Cook just until pink and opaque.
- Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Feel free to add more salt, pepper, or chili flakes to suit your preferences.
- Experiment with Vegetables: Substitute broccoli, green beans, or zucchini for the asparagus.
- Make it a Complete Meal: Serve with a side salad or crusty bread for a more substantial meal.
This recipe is a celebration of simple ingredients transformed into something extraordinary. It’s a testament to the power of good food to bring people together and nourish the soul. So, next time you're short on time but craving a delicious and healthy meal, give this Skillet Shrimp with Orzo, Feta, and Asparagus a try. You won’t regret it!
