Harissa Shrimp Orzo
Harissa Shrimp Orzo is a quick and flavorful Mediterranean-inspired dish combining tender shrimp with smoky, spicy harissa paste and creamy orzo pasta. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests with its bold flavors and vibrant colors.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: One-pan sauté
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Gluten Free (if orzo substituted)
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp & Protein
- 1 lb fresh peeled and deveined shrimp
Pasta & Broth
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 ½ cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
Flavors & Seasonings
- 1 ½ tablespoons harissa paste
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Garnishes
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add seasoned shrimp and cook until pink and opaque, about 2 minutes per side. Remove from pan and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds, being careful not to burn it.
- Cook the Orzo: Add orzo to the pan and stir to coat with oil and garlic. Pour in chicken or vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Cook, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and most liquid is absorbed, about 10 minutes.
- Add Harissa and Return Shrimp: Stir in harissa paste, then add lemon juice and return cooked shrimp to the pan. Toss gently to combine and heat through.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle fresh parsley or cilantro on top, adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, and serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use fresh or thawed shrimp for the best texture and flavor.
- Toast the orzo briefly in oil before adding broth to enhance its nutty flavor.
- Adjust the amount of harissa paste to control the heat level.
- Remove shrimp as soon as they turn pink to avoid overcooking and rubbery texture.
- Add fresh lemon juice at the end to brighten flavors without cooking off freshness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 180 mg
Keywords: harissa shrimp, Mediterranean shrimp, spicy shrimp pasta, one-pan dinner, quick shrimp recipe, weeknight meals, harissa orzo
Find it online: https://sophiespace.com/harissa-shrimp-orzo/