Orzo With Peas & Shrimp
"We really enjoyed this easy recipe. Recipe source: Cooking Light (December 2016)"
Ingredients
Nutritional
- Serving Size: 1 (456.2 g)
- Calories 295.1
- Total Fat - 9.3 g
- Saturated Fat - 2.3 g
- Cholesterol - 153.4 mg
- Sodium - 1812.1 mg
- Total Carbohydrate - 31.4 g
- Dietary Fiber - 5.7 g
- Sugars - 5.1 g
- Protein - 21.4 g
- Calcium - 133.1 mg
- Iron - 3.3 mg
- Vitamin C - 22.4 mg
- Thiamin - 0.2 mg
Step by Step Method
Step 1
In a large skillet or pot over medium high heat heat the oil and then add the onion, thyme, and garlic - cook for 5 minutes or until onion is tender, stirring frequently. Add orzo and cook for another 2 minutes or until toasted, stirring to coat. Stir in wine and bring to a boil. Cook for 2 minutes or until liquid almost evaporates.
Step 2
Stir in 2 cups broth and salt and bring to a boil on high heat; reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Stir in remaining broth (1 1/2 cups), peas, rind and shrimp and cook for another 5 minutes or until shrimp is done. Remove pan from heat and stir in juice, pepper and cream cheese.
Step 3
Divide mixture among 4 plates or bowls and sprinkle with chives.
Tips
No special items needed.
Editorial Notes
The ingredient tips, suggestions, variations, facts, questions and answers below are not edits to the original author's recipe. They are not meant to imply any change would improve the recipe. They're offered for convenience, alternative ideas, and points of interest. If you have any comments about them, please post in the Help & Ideas forum.
- When selecting shrimp, look for ones that are firm with a mild smell.
- When buying frozen peas, make sure to check the expiration date.
- Substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth for a vegetarian version of the recipe. The benefit of this substitution is that it eliminates the need for animal products, making the recipe suitable for vegetarian diets. The thinking behind this substitution is that vegetable broth is a flavorful and nutritious substitute for chicken broth.
- Substitute Greek yogurt for cream cheese for a healthier version of the recipe. The benefit of this substitution is that Greek yogurt is lower in fat and calories than cream cheese, making the recipe healthier. The thinking behind this substitution is that Greek yogurt has a similar creamy texture and flavor to cream cheese, making it a suitable substitute.
Vegetarian Option Substitute the shrimp with 1 cup of cooked chickpeas and 2 tablespoons of nutritional yeast. Omit the white wine and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Roasted Asparagus with Parmesan: This simple side dish is a great accompaniment to the Orzo With Peas & Shrimp. Roasting the asparagus brings out a sweet nutty flavor and adding the Parmesan cheese adds a salty, cheesy crunch.
Garlic Roasted Potatoes: These potatoes are a delicious side dish that pairs perfectly with the Orzo With Peas & Shrimp and Roasted Asparagus with Parmesan. Roasting the potatoes in garlic and herbs brings out a savory flavor that complements the other dishes.
FAQ
Q: How much cream cheese should I use?
A: You should use 1 ounce of cream cheese. Low fat is specified, but you can use full fat cream cheese if you prefer.
Q: How long should I bake the cream cheese?
A: Bake the cream cheese for 15 to 20 minutes at 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Check the cream cheese every 5 minutes until it is golden brown.
1 Reviews
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Fun facts:
The dish of orzo with peas and shrimp is believed to have originated in the Mediterranean region. It is a popular dish in Greece, where it is known as 'Kritharaki me Garida'.
The herb thyme, which is a key ingredient in this recipe, has been used in cooking since ancient times. It was even used in the mummification process of Ancient Egyptians.