Orzo with Bacon and Shrimp Recipe – Italian Special
Orzo with Bacon and Shrimp is a delightful and hearty dish that pairs tender orzo pasta with crispy bacon and juicy shrimp. Infused with a savory mix of garlic, white wine, and fresh vegetables, this recipe offers both quick preparation and elegant presentation. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, its rich flavors and satisfying textures are sure to impress.
- Prep Time15 min
- Cook Time35 min
- Total Time50 min
Orzo with Bacon and Shrimp Ingredients :
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup white wine (or chicken broth)
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup frozen peas, thawed
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges (for serving)
How to make Orzo with Bacon and Shrimp :
Cook Orzo: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Cook Bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Discard excess fat from the skillet, leaving about 1 tablespoon.
Cook Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until pink and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add olive oil. Sauté the onion until translucent, about 3 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
Deglaze and Add Vegetables: Pour in the white wine and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook for 2 minutes until they start to soften.
Combine and Finish: Stir in the cooked orzo, peas, and bacon. Toss to combine and heat through. Return the shrimp to the skillet and mix gently.
Garnish and Serve: Stir in Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve with lemon wedges on the side.
Recipe Notes:
Wine Substitution: If you prefer not to use wine, chicken broth works well for deglazing.
Add Veggies: You can include other vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra flavor and color.
Adjust Spice: Feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat.
