Introduction & Inspiration
When I want something a little luxurious but still easy enough for a weeknight, this Prawn Orzo with Sun-Dried Tomatoes is my go-to recipe. It’s creamy, packed with flavor, and comes together in just one pan, making cleanup a breeze. I love how the tender prawns and rich orzo create a dish that feels both comforting and elegant.
Nostalgic Appeal
Seafood always reminds me of family dinners by the coast, where the catch of the day was the highlight of every meal. Prawns, especially, hold a special place in my heart, and pairing them with pasta always feels like bringing a little bit of vacation into my kitchen. This dish captures that feeling perfectly — simple ingredients, bold flavors, and a touch of indulgence.
Homemade Focus
Making this dish at home means I get to pick the freshest prawns, the best sun-dried tomatoes, and quality orzo that cooks up perfectly creamy. I can adjust the spice level, the creaminess, and the veggie content based on what I’m craving or what’s in season. There’s nothing quite like a homemade seafood pasta that’s bursting with real, honest ingredients.
Flavor Goal
The goal here was simple: create a balanced dish where every bite feels satisfying and exciting. The prawns needed to be juicy and well-seasoned, not bland or rubbery. The orzo had to be creamy without being heavy, with pops of flavor from the sun-dried tomatoes, broccoli, and fresh spinach.
Ingredient Insights
King prawns are the star, offering tender bites that soak up the spices and garlic beautifully. Paprika powder and red pepper flakes bring warmth and a little kick, while garlic powder and fresh minced garlic create a deep, savory flavor. Olive oil is used both to cook the prawns and toast the orzo, adding richness throughout. Sun-dried tomatoes add tangy, slightly sweet bursts that balance the creaminess of the dish. Orzo, a rice-shaped pasta, cooks directly in the broth, absorbing every bit of flavor. Chicken broth makes the orzo extra savory and infuses it with depth. Broccoli adds freshness and a little crunch, while spinach wilts perfectly into the creamy sauce. Heavy cream brings the luxurious final touch, tying all the flavors together into one irresistible dish.
Essential Equipment
A large nonstick or stainless steel pan is essential for cooking everything evenly. A sharp knife and cutting board make prepping the garlic, tomatoes, and veggies quick and easy. A sturdy spatula or wooden spoon helps with stirring the orzo to prevent sticking. A lid for the pan is crucial for simmering the orzo until tender.
List of Ingredients with Measurements
For the Prawns:
1 1/2 lb raw king prawns, peeled
1 tsp paprika powder
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
2 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp salt
2 tbsp olive oil
6 cloves garlic, minced
For the Orzo Pasta:
1 tbsp olive oil
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
1 cup orzo, uncooked
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup broccoli, finely chopped
2 cups fresh spinach
1 cup heavy cream
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Season the Prawns
In a large bowl, toss the peeled prawns with paprika powder, red pepper flakes if using, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Make sure every prawn is coated well with the seasoning. This step sets the foundation for juicy, flavorful prawns.
Step 2: Cook the Prawns
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the seasoned prawns in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and are just cooked through. Remove the prawns from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Start the Orzo
In the same pan, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for about 30 seconds to release their flavor. Add the uncooked orzo to the pan and stir continuously for about 1 minute, coating the orzo with the oil and spices.
Step 4: Simmer the Orzo
Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan for extra flavor. Stir in the finely chopped broccoli and mix well. Once the broth starts bubbling, lower the heat to a simmer, cover with a lid, and cook for 7-8 minutes, stirring 2-3 times to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Finish the Dish
Once the orzo is tender, stir in the fresh spinach, heavy cream, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the sauce becomes creamy. Return the cooked prawns to the pan and stir everything together gently. Cook for another 2-3 minutes just to warm the prawns through, then serve hot.
Troubleshooting
If the prawns turn rubbery, they were likely overcooked — always remove them from the pan as soon as they turn pink. If the orzo sticks to the pan, make sure you are stirring every few minutes while it simmers. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash more chicken broth or cream to loosen it up. If it’s too watery, let it simmer uncovered for a couple more minutes to thicken.
Tips and Variations
Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving for a bright, fresh flavor. Swap the broccoli for asparagus or peas depending on the season. Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version. Top with grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of richness. Add a pinch of smoked paprika for a deeper, smokier flavor profile.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
Serve this Prawn Orzo hot, straight from the pan, for the best creamy texture. Pair it with a crisp green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing side. A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio would complement the seafood flavors beautifully. Garnish with extra chopped sun-dried tomatoes or a sprinkle of fresh parsley for color.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of Prawn Orzo is packed with protein from the prawns and spinach. Thanks to the chicken broth and veggies, it offers a balance of protein, fiber, and carbs. Using a moderate amount of heavy cream keeps it luxurious without being overly heavy. It’s a filling, satisfying meal that feels indulgent while still packing in nutrients.
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Prawn Orzo with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Description
Make this easy and delicious Prawn Orzo with Sun-Dried Tomatoes. Juicy prawns, creamy orzo, and vibrant vegetables come together for a restaurant-quality meal ready in just 30 minutes
Ingredients
For the Prawns:
1 1/2 lb raw king prawns, peeled
1 tsp paprika powder
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
2 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp salt
2 tbsp olive oil
6 cloves garlic, minced
For the Orzo Pasta:
1 tbsp olive oil
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
1 cup orzo, uncooked
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup broccoli, finely chopped
2 cups fresh spinach
1 cup heavy cream
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Season the Prawns
In a large bowl, toss the peeled prawns with paprika powder, red pepper flakes if using, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Make sure every prawn is coated well with the seasoning. This step sets the foundation for juicy, flavorful prawns.
Step 2: Cook the Prawns
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the seasoned prawns in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and are just cooked through. Remove the prawns from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Start the Orzo
In the same pan, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for about 30 seconds to release their flavor. Add the uncooked orzo to the pan and stir continuously for about 1 minute, coating the orzo with the oil and spices.
Step 4: Simmer the Orzo
Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan for extra flavor. Stir in the finely chopped broccoli and mix well. Once the broth starts bubbling, lower the heat to a simmer, cover with a lid, and cook for 7-8 minutes, stirring 2-3 times to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Finish the Dish
Once the orzo is tender, stir in the fresh spinach, heavy cream, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the sauce becomes creamy. Return the cooked prawns to the pan and stir everything together gently. Cook for another 2-3 minutes just to warm the prawns through, then serve hot.
Recipe Summary and Q&A
Today, I shared how to make this luscious Prawn Orzo with Sun-Dried Tomatoes, a perfect one-pan meal. We seasoned juicy prawns, cooked creamy orzo right in the pan, and brought everything together with vibrant veggies and rich cream. Can you make this ahead? Yes — just reheat gently with a splash of broth or cream to keep it creamy. Can you use frozen prawns? Absolutely — just thaw them first and pat dry before seasoning. This dish is the kind of meal that feels a little fancy but is secretly so easy. Once you try it, I am sure it will become a regular favorite in your kitchen just like it is in mine!