This delicious shrimp with olives, tomatoes, and orzo recipe is perfect for a quick and easy dinner that's packed with flavor. The combination of succulent shrimp, tangy olives, sweet tomatoes, and hearty orzo creates a mouthwatering dish that's sure to impress.
This recipe calls for some ingredients that may not be staples in everyone's pantry, like orzo and capers. Orzo is a type of pasta that's shaped like a large grain of rice. It's commonly used in Mediterranean dishes and can usually be found in the pasta aisle of your local supermarket. Capers are small flower buds that have been pickled. They're often used in Italian and Mediterranean cuisine for their unique, tangy flavor. You can typically find them in the condiment or pickled foods aisle.
Ingredients for Shrimp with Olives, Tomatoes, and Orzo
Orzo pasta: This small, rice-shaped pasta absorbs flavors well and adds a satisfying bite to the dish.
Extra virgin olive oil: Used for sautéing, it adds a rich, fruity flavor.
Garlic: It provides a strong, aromatic flavor that's essential in this dish.
Fresh tomatoes: They add a burst of sweet, acidic flavor.
Black olives: They bring a savory, salty note to the dish.
Capers: These add a pop of tangy, briny flavor.
Salt: It enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
Black pepper: It brings a hint of heat and complexity.
Raw shrimp: The star of this dish, shrimp adds a sweet, delicate seafood flavor.
Fresh baby arugula: It adds a peppery, slightly bitter taste and a fresh green color.
One reader, Baryram Saldana says:
This shrimp with olives, tomatoes, and orzo recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are a perfect blend of savory and fresh, and the orzo adds a delightful texture. It's a quick and easy dish that's sure to impress. I highly recommend giving it a try!
Cooking Techniques for Shrimp with Olives, Tomatoes, and Orzo
How to cook orzo pasta: Boil salted water and add the orzo. Cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente.
How to cook the tomatoes and shrimp: Heat oil in a sauté pan, add garlic and tomatoes, then cook for 5 minutes. Add capers and olives, then season with salt and pepper. Add the shrimp and cook until almost done.
How to combine the orzo with the shrimp and tomatoes: Drain the orzo and stir it into the tomatoes and shrimp. Add the chopped arugula or parsley.
How To Make Shrimp with Olives, Tomatoes, and Orzo
Packed with fresh and bright flavors, this orzo recipe is an easy dish with shrimp, olives, and tomatoes and some peppery flavors from the arugula.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 8ozorzo pasta
- 3tbspextra virgin olive oil
- 3clovesgarlic,minced
- 1lbripe fresh tomatoes,(about 4 medium tomatoes, about 3 cups), chopped
- 1½cupsripe black olives,chopped
- 2tbspcapers,(including caper juice)
- ½tspsalt
- ½tspblack pepper
- 1lbraw shrimp,medium to large, peeled and deveined
- 1cupfresh baby arugula,chopped, (or ¼ chopped fresh parsley)
Instructions
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Put a pot of salted water (1 tablespoon of salt for 2 quarts of water) on to boil.When the pasta water is at a rolling boil, add the orzo.
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Once the water returns to a boil, the pasta should take about 8 to 10 minutes to cook to reach al dente (cooked but still a little firm to the bite). While the water is heating and the pasta is cooking, cook the tomatoes and shrimp in the next steps.
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Heat 3 tablespoons oil in a large, wide sauté pan on medium heat. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant. Stir in the chopped tomatoes, increase the heat to medium high, and let cook for about 5 minutes.
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Stir the capers and chopped olives in with the tomatoes. Add salt and pepper.
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A few minutes before the orzo is ready, add the shrimp to the tomatoes and olives. Let the shrimp cook on one side for a couple minutes, then turn them over to cook for a minute or two on the other side.
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Remove from heat as soon as the shrimp are almost cooked through.
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When the pasta is al dente, drain it and stir it into the tomatoes and shrimp. Stir in the chopped arugula or parsley.
Nutrition
- Calories: 480.29kcal
- Fat: 17.24g
- Saturated Fat: 2.43g
- Trans Fat: 0.00g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 11.60g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.14g
- Carbohydrates: 51.15g
- Fiber: 5.09g
- Sugar: 4.57g
- Protein: 31.93g
- Cholesterol: 182.57mg
- Sodium: 819.96mg
- Calcium: 150.47mg
- Potassium: 720.45mg
- Iron: 3.52mg
- Vitamin A: 60.09µg
- Vitamin C: 17.13mg
Expert Tip for Perfecting Shrimp with Olives, Tomatoes, and Orzo
To ensure your shrimp is perfectly cooked and not overdone, keep a close eye on it as it cooks. Shrimp cooks very quickly, usually in just a few minutes. As soon as it turns pink and opaque, it's done. Overcooked shrimp can become tough and chewy, so it's best to remove it from the heat as soon as it's nearly cooked through.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Shrimp Dish
Prep ahead: Chop vegetables, measure ingredients, and devein shrimp in advance to streamline the cooking process.
One-pot wonder: Opt for a large skillet or pot to cook the entire dish in one vessel, reducing the number of dishes to clean.
Quick-cooking shrimp: Use smaller shrimp or pre-cooked shrimp to cut down on cooking time.
Efficient multitasking: While the orzo is cooking, simultaneously prepare the tomato and shrimp mixture to save time.
Organized workspace: Keep your ingredients and utensils organized and within reach to work more efficiently.
Easy cleanup: Clean as you go to minimize the post-cooking cleanup time.
Substitute Ingredients For Shrimp with Olives, Tomatoes, and Orzo Recipe
orzo pasta - Substitute with quinoa: Quinoa is a great alternative to orzo as it has a similar texture and can absorb the flavors of the dish. It also adds a nutty flavor and is a good source of protein and fiber.
extra virgin olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a mild flavor, making it a suitable substitute for extra virgin olive oil in this recipe. It also contains healthy fats and antioxidants.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a mild, sweet flavor similar to garlic and can be used as a substitute in this recipe. They add a depth of flavor without being overpowering.
ripe fresh tomatoes - Substitute with canned diced tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes can be used as a substitute for fresh tomatoes, especially when they are not in season. They provide a similar texture and flavor to the dish.
ripe black olives - Substitute with kalamata olives: Kalamata olives have a rich, fruity flavor and a meaty texture, making them a great substitute for ripe black olives in this recipe. They add a depth of flavor and a slightly tangy taste.
capers - Substitute with sliced green olives: Sliced green olives can be used as a substitute for capers, providing a similar briny and tangy flavor to the dish.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used as a substitute for regular salt, adding a subtle briny flavor and enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper can be used as a substitute for black pepper, providing a milder and slightly earthy flavor to the dish.
raw shrimp - Substitute with scallops: Scallops can be used as a substitute for shrimp, providing a sweet and delicate flavor that pairs well with the other ingredients in the recipe.
baby arugula - Substitute with baby spinach: Baby spinach can be used as a substitute for baby arugula, providing a similar tender texture and mild, slightly peppery flavor to the dish.
Best Way to Present Shrimp with Olives, Tomatoes, and Orzo
Elevate the orzo: Cook the orzo to al dente perfection, ensuring each grain is separate and tender. It should be the perfect canvas for the flavorful shrimp and tomato sauce.
Garnish with fresh arugula: Sprinkle a handful of vibrant, fresh baby arugula over the top of the dish. The peppery notes and bright green color will add a pop of freshness and visual appeal.
Arrange the shrimp artistically: Place the shrimp on top of the orzo in an eye-catching manner. Ensure they are evenly distributed and visually appealing, showcasing their succulent texture and vibrant color.
Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil: Just before serving, drizzle a high-quality extra virgin olive oil over the dish. This will add a luxurious sheen and a final burst of rich, fruity flavor.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle some finely chopped fresh parsley over the top for a touch of color and a hint of herbaceous freshness.
Use a wide, shallow bowl for serving: Present the dish in a wide, shallow bowl to showcase the vibrant colors and textures of the ingredients. This will also allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
Add a sprinkle of sea salt: Just before serving, add a light sprinkle of flaky sea salt over the dish to enhance the flavors and provide a delightful crunch in each bite.
Serve with crusty bread: Accompany the dish with slices of warm, crusty bread to soak up the delicious tomato and olive sauce. This adds a comforting and rustic element to the presentation.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making This Shrimp Recipe
- Pot: A large, sturdy cooking vessel used for boiling or simmering ingredients.
- Sauté pan: A wide, flat-bottomed pan with relatively tall sides, used for sautéing, searing, and frying foods.
- Colander: A bowl-shaped kitchen utensil with perforations used to drain liquids from food.
- Cutting board: A durable board on which to place and cut food.
- Knife: A sharp-edged utensil used for cutting or slicing ingredients.
- Tongs: A versatile kitchen tool used for gripping and lifting hot or delicate items.
- Wooden spoon: A spoon made from wood, often used for stirring and mixing ingredients.
- Strainer: A device used to separate solids from liquids by passing the mixture through a perforated surface.
- Grater: A kitchen utensil with sharp-edged perforations used for shredding or grating foods.
- Measuring cup: A container used to measure liquid or dry ingredients.
- Spatula: A flat, flexible utensil used for lifting, flipping, or spreading ingredients.
- Garlic press: A tool used to crush garlic cloves, extracting the pulp and juices.
- Food processor: An electric kitchen appliance used for chopping, mixing, or pureeing ingredients.
- Mixing bowl: A bowl used for combining ingredients, often with a non-slip base and a handle for easy use.
- Whisk: A kitchen utensil used for blending, whipping, and beating ingredients.
- Peeler: A tool used to remove the outer skin or peel of fruits and vegetables.
- Zester: A kitchen tool used to remove the zest from citrus fruits.
- Oven: A kitchen appliance used for baking, roasting, and heating food.
- Stove: A cooking appliance with burners or heating elements used for cooking food.
- Blender: An electric kitchen appliance used for blending, pureeing, or emulsifying ingredients.
- Grill: A device used for cooking food over an open flame or heat source.
- Skewers: Long, slender metal or wooden sticks used to hold and cook food items.
- Baking dish: A deep, oven-safe dish used for baking or roasting food.
- Aluminum foil: A thin, pliable sheet of aluminum used for covering or wrapping food during cooking or storage.
Storing and Freezing Instructions for This Shrimp Dish
- Let the shrimp with olives, tomatoes, and orzo cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days.
- If you want to freeze the dish, it's best to freeze the orzo separately from the shrimp and tomato mixture. Cook the orzo until it's slightly undercooked, drain it, and toss it with a little bit of olive oil to prevent sticking. Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- For the shrimp and tomato mixture, cook it as directed in the recipe, but leave out the arugula or parsley. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag.
- When you're ready to eat, thaw both the orzo and the shrimp mixture in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat the orzo in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to loosen it up. Reheat the shrimp mixture in a pan on the stovetop until it's heated through. Stir in the fresh arugula or parsley just before serving.
- The frozen dish will keep well for up to 2-3 months in the freezer. Be sure to label the containers with the date so you know how long they've been stored.
How to Reheat Leftover Shrimp with Olives, Tomatoes, and Orzo
- Reheat the shrimp with olives, tomatoes, and orzo in a large skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through and the shrimp are warm, about 5-7 minutes. Add a splash of olive oil or chicken broth if the dish seems dry.
- For a quicker reheating method, transfer the leftovers to a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the shrimp and orzo are heated through.
- If you have time, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftovers to an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the shrimp and orzo are heated through. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking to allow any excess moisture to evaporate and the top to crisp up slightly.
- For a fresh twist on leftovers, transform the dish into a cold pasta salad. Chill the leftovers in the refrigerator, then toss with additional olive oil, lemon juice, and fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or dill. Serve the refreshing salad over a bed of greens or stuffed into pita pockets for a light lunch.
- Create a flavorful shrimp and orzo soup by reheating the leftovers in a pot with chicken or vegetable broth. Simmer the mixture until heated through, then adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Serve the comforting soup with crusty bread for dipping.
Interesting Trivia About Shrimp with Olives, Tomatoes, and Orzo
The shrimp with olives, tomatoes, and orzo recipe is a delicious and healthy dish that combines the flavors of the sea with the freshness of ripe tomatoes and olives. It's a great source of lean protein and essential nutrients, making it a perfect option for a balanced meal.
Is Cooking Shrimp with Olives, Tomatoes, and Orzo Budget-Friendly?
The cost-effectiveness of this shrimp with olives, tomatoes, and orzo recipe largely depends on the availability and cost of the ingredients in your area. Shrimp and olives can be pricier, but the orzo and tomatoes are usually more budget-friendly. The overall verdict for this dish would be an 8, considering the balance of flavors and nutritional value. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $25-$30, factoring in the cost of fresh shrimp and olives.
Is This Shrimp Dish Healthy or Unhealthy?
This shrimp with olives, tomatoes, and orzo recipe is a relatively healthy dish with a good balance of protein, vegetables, and complex carbohydrates. The shrimp provides lean protein, while the tomatoes and arugula offer vitamins and minerals. Olives and olive oil contribute healthy fats, and the orzo supplies complex carbohydrates for energy. However, the dish does contain some sodium from the olives, capers, and added salt.
To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Reduce the amount of added salt or omit it entirely, as the olives and capers already provide a salty flavor
- Use whole wheat orzo to increase the fiber content and nutritional value of the dish
- Add more vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach, to boost the vitamin and mineral content
- Use a reduced-sodium variety of olives and capers to lower the overall sodium content
- Opt for wild-caught shrimp, as they tend to have a better nutritional profile than farm-raised shrimp
- Increase the amount of arugula or add other leafy greens like kale or Swiss chard for additional nutrients and fiber
Editor's Opinion on This Delightful Shrimp Recipe
This recipe for shrimp with olives, tomatoes, and orzo is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The use of fresh ingredients like ripe tomatoes, black olives, and capers adds a burst of Mediterranean flavors, while the orzo provides a comforting base for the dish. The addition of shrimp brings a touch of seafood richness, and the baby arugula adds a fresh, peppery note. The dish is well-balanced and offers a satisfying meal that is both elegant and approachable. It's a perfect choice for a special dinner or a casual gathering with friends and family.
Enhance Your Shrimp with Olives, Tomatoes, and Orzo Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Perfect Appetizers and Desserts to Complement Shrimp with Olives, Tomatoes, and Orzo
Why trust this Shrimp with Olives, Tomatoes, and Orzo Recipe:
This recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, featuring fresh shrimp and ripe tomatoes that bring a burst of sweetness, balanced by the savory richness of black olives and the tangy pop of capers. The use of extra virgin olive oil and aromatic garlic infuses the dish with depth and complexity. The addition of orzo pasta provides a satisfying base, while the fresh baby arugula adds a peppery bite. Trust in the quality and harmony of these ingredients to create a memorable and delicious meal.
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