GARLIC SHRIMP ORZO

Garlic Shrimp Cassava Orzo: A Hearty and Wholesome Dish

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, flavorful bowl of Garlic Shrimp Orzo. This dish combines tender shrimp, colorful vegetables, and cassava orzo, creating a meal that feels both indulgent and nourishing. It’s perfect for those looking to enjoy the flavors of a pasta dish without the gluten or grains, thanks to cassava orzo, which is made from the cassava root—a starchy, nutrient-rich vegetable popular in many cultures for its versatility. Cassava orzo brings a light, slightly chewy texture that pairs beautifully with the juicy shrimp and tender-crisp veggies, giving the dish a unique and satisfying twist.

Each ingredient in this recipe brings something special. The shrimp adds a natural sweetness and a boost of protein, while the carrots, celery, and broccoli add a vibrant mix of color, crunch, and earthy flavors. Garlic is added at the end, lending a fresh, aromatic note that perfectly complements the light herbs, thyme, and oregano. A sprinkle of kelp powder enhances the flavor of the shrimp with a hint of the sea, while avocado oil provides a rich base for sautéing the shrimp and veggies. Finished with a drizzle of olive oil and fresh parsley, this meal feels both elevated and easy, a wholesome option for a quick dinner or a comforting weekend meal.

The recipe is also adaptable, making it perfect for anyone with dietary restrictions. Cassava orzo makes this dish gluten-free, while the abundance of fresh vegetables and olive oil bring healthy fats and fiber. Plus, the combination of herbs and kelp powder adds a delightful depth of flavor without needing additional sauces or seasonings. Best of all, this dish is straightforward to prepare, with minimal cooking time and ingredients that come together seamlessly in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze.

Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this Garlic Shrimp Cassava Orzo is sure to impress. It’s a recipe that not only tastes delicious but also leaves you feeling satisfied and energized—perfect for busy weeknights or as a special dish to share with loved ones. Serve it warm with a generous drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of parsley for a meal that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

Ingredients (Serves 4):

• 20 shrimp – Peeled and deveined, the shrimp bring a tender and juicy bite, packed with protein and a subtle sweetness that balances the other flavors.
• 2-3 carrots, diced – Carrots add a slight sweetness and vibrant color, along with a boost of vitamins and antioxidants to the dish.
• 2 celery sticks, diced – Celery offers a crisp texture and a slightly peppery flavor, adding depth to the vegetable base.
• 2-3 cups broccoli florets – Broccoli adds a delightful crunch and a dose of fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
• 2-3 garlic cloves, minced – Garlic infuses the dish with its rich, aromatic flavor; by adding it at the end, you preserve its freshness and zest.
• 8 oz cassava orzo – A gluten-free orzo alternative that mimics the texture of traditional pasta, cassava orzo is made from the root of the cassava plant, making it suitable for various dietary needs.
• 2 tbsp avocado oil – With a high smoke point, avocado oil is ideal for cooking the shrimp and vegetables, and it adds a mild, buttery flavor.
• 1/4 tsp thyme – This herb lends an earthy, slightly minty note that complements the shrimp and veggies well.
• 1/4 tsp oregano – Oregano adds a touch of warmth and herbal depth, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.
• 1/2 tsp sea salt – Enhances all the natural flavors of the ingredients, balancing out the sweetness of the vegetables and the savoriness of the shrimp.
• 1/8 tsp kelp powder – Kelp powder adds a subtle hint of ocean flavor, enhancing the taste of the shrimp while also providing essential minerals.
• Olive oil and fresh parsley – Drizzled over the dish at the end, olive oil adds a fruity richness, and parsley provides a fresh, slightly peppery finish.

Instructions:

1. Cook the Shrimp:
   • In a large skillet over medium heat, add the avocado oil. When the oil is warm, place the shrimp in the skillet and cook for about 1 minute on each side, or until they turn pink and are just cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside on a plate. This quick cooking ensures the shrimp stay juicy and tender.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
   • In the same skillet, add the diced carrots and celery. Sauté them for 5-7 minutes, or until they start to soften and release their natural sweetness. Then, add the broccoli florets and continue to cook for another 5-7 minutes. If needed, add 2-3 tablespoons of water to the skillet and cover it to help steam the vegetables, making them tender while keeping some crunch.
3. Prepare the Cassava Orzo:
   • While the veggies are cooking, prepare the cassava orzo according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse the orzo once it’s done, and set it aside. Cassava orzo provides a light, satisfying base for the dish and is an excellent gluten-free alternative.
4. Combine and Season:
   • Once the broccoli is tender-crisp, add the cooked orzo to the skillet along with the thyme, oregano, sea salt, and kelp powder. Stir everything together well, letting the flavors meld for about 1 minute. The herbs infuse the dish with a gentle warmth, while the kelp powder subtly enhances the shrimp’s natural flavor.
5. Add Garlic & Finish:
   • Turn off the heat and add the minced garlic, stirring it through the hot orzo and vegetables. Adding garlic at the end preserves its fresh aroma, giving the dish a delightful garlic flavor without overpowering it.
   • Serve the orzo mixture on plates, then top each portion with the cooked shrimp. Drizzle with olive oil for richness, and sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and a final layer of freshness.

Serve & Enjoy:

Enjoy this warm, comforting meal that’s brimming with flavor and texture. The Garlic Shrimp Cassava Orzo is perfect as a light dinner or a satisfying lunch. With its blend of nutritious ingredients and aromatic herbs, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation.

GARLIC SHRIMP ORZO

Course: Dinner, LunchCuisine: Mediterranean, ItalianDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

10

minutes

Cooking time

20

minutes

Calories

355

kcal

A wholesome and flavorful Garlic Shrimp Cassava Orzo, featuring tender shrimp, vibrant veggies, and gluten-free cassava orzo. This easy one-pan meal combines fresh garlic, herbs, and a sprinkle of olive oil for a balanced, satisfying dish perfect for busy weeknights or a light, nutritious dinner.

Ingredients

• 20 medium shrimp (approx. 250g)shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 2-3 medium carrots, diced (approx. 200g or about 1 ½ cups diced)

• 2 celery sticks, diced (approx. 100g or about 1 cup diced)

• 2-3 cups (approx. 200-300g) broccoli florets

• 2-3 (approx. 6-9g) garlic cloves, minced

• 8 oz (approx. 225g) cassava orzo

• 2 tablespoons (approx. 30ml) avocado oil

• 1/4 tsp (approx. 1g) thyme

• 1/4 teaspoon (approx. 1g) oregano

• 1/2 teaspoon (approx. 3g) sea salt

• 1/8 teaspoon (approx. 0.5g) kelp powder

• For drizzling (approx. 1 tablespoon or 15ml)

• Fresh parsley, for garnish (to taste)

Directions

• In a skillet over medium heat, warm the avocado oil. Add the shrimp and cook for about 1 minute on each side, until just pink. Remove and set aside.
• Using the same skillet, add the diced carrots and celery. Cook for 5-7 minutes, then add the broccoli florets and cook for another 5-7 minutes, adding a few tablespoons of water if needed. Cover to steam until the broccoli is tender-crisp.
• While the veggies cook, prepare the cassava orzo according to package instructions, then drain and rinse.
• Once the veggies are ready, add the cooked orzo to the skillet along with the thyme, oregano, sea salt, and kelp powder. Stir well, cooking for another minute to bring all the flavors together.
• Turn off the heat and stir in the garlic for a burst of fresh flavor. Serve the orzo on plates, topped with shrimp, a drizzle of olive oil, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.

Recipe Video

Notes

• You can choose shrimp with or without shells, depending on your preference.
• Feel free to add other vegetables like cauliflower, kale, or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.
• Adding garlic at the end of cooking helps preserve its flavor and aroma. For a milder garlic taste, you can sauté it briefly with the shrimp.
• Fresh herbs can be used instead of dried. For example, use 1 teaspoon of fresh thyme or oregano.
• Follow the package instructions for cooking the cassava orzo. Be sure not to overcook it, as it should retain a bit of chewiness.
• Serve the dish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley and a drizzle of olive oil for a burst of flavor.
• Consider serving with a side salad or some steamed greens for a complete meal.
• This dish is gluten-free and can be easily adapted for various dietary needs. It is also suitable for Paleo and Whole30 diets.