Orzo Pasta with Argentine Red Shrimp Recipe
This dish features plump Argentine Red Shrimp paired with tender orzo pasta, creating a visually appealing plate. The shrimp is pink and juicy, complementing the golden hue of saffron-infused pasta. Thin slices of dry salami are scattered throughout, adding a touch of richness and a contrasting texture to the dish. The overall appearance is colorful and appetizing, with the saffron giving the dish a warm, inviting look.
During our trip to Argentina, Laurel and I had the chance to try a dish that stood out: Orzo Pasta paired with Argentine Red Shrimp. The Orzo, a type of small pasta shaped like grains of rice, had a smooth texture and an appealing look. It was cooked just right, with each piece holding its shape and absorbing the rich flavors.
The Argentine Red Shrimp, known for their vibrant pink color even before cooking, were succulent and slightly sweet. Their large size and firm texture made them a perfect match for the Orzo, creating a dish that was both visually striking and full of robust flavor. The presentation was simple with the shrimp nestled on top of the pasta and a light sauce that brought the two components together.
Ingredients For the Orzo Pasta with Argentine Red Shrimp Recipe
Italian Sausage
Asparagus
Olive Oil
Butter
Argentinian Red Shrimp
Basil
Dried Oregano
Paprika
Red Pepper
Vermouth
Garlic
Roma Tomatoes)
Chicken Broth
Onion
Orzo Pasta
Saffron
White Wine
Water
Parmesan or Romano Cheese
Ground Pepper
How to Cook the Orzo Pasta with Argentine Red Shrimp Recipe
- In a large frying pan, cook the sausage in 1 1/2 tablespoons of the olive oil and 1 1/2 tablespoons of the butter over medium-high heat for about 12 to 14 minutes, turning occasionally.
- Remove the sausages before they are fully cooked.
- Cut the sausages into 1/4 to 1/2 inch, bite-sized pieces and set aside in a small bowl.
- Raise the heat to high.
- Put the shrimp into the skillet.
- Stir the shrimp to coat them in the butter and oil.
- Add the basil, oregano, paprika, crushed red pepper, the vermouth, and 1/2 of the garlic.
- Sauté the shrimp over high heat for about three minutes.
- Remove the shrimp only and set them aside in a small bowl.
- Put the tomatoes and 1/3 cup of the chicken broth into the skillet and let boil for about 3 minutes.
- Add the sausage back in. Turn off the heat and stir well.
- Meanwhile, in a Second Skillet
- Heat the remaining olive oil in a ten inch, non-stick skillet.
- Add the onion and remaining garlic, and cook them over medium-high heat for three or four minutes.
Add in the pasta and the saffron. - Stir well, until the pasta is well coated.
- Pour in the white wine and let simmer for about five minutes.
- Separately, dilute the remaining chicken broth with the cup of water.
- Stir in 3/4 of a cup of the diluted chicken broth to the mixture and let simmer until the liquid is mostly absorbed (about five minutes), stirring frequently.
- Return to the First Skillet and Start Combining
- Return to the first pan with the sausage. Turn the heat on to medium-high.
- Add the pasta in with the sausage and another 3/4 cup of the diluted broth.
- Continue to simmer the mixture and stir until the liquid is absorbed again.
- Stir in the remaining diluted broth and continue simmering for a final 6 to 8 minutes.
- Just before the liquid is absorbed, add in the shrimp, asparagus, and the remaining butter.
- Continue to simmer for a couple more minutes. When the liquid is absorbed and the pasta is tender, turn off the heat and stir in the cheese until the sauce is creamy smooth.
- Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot.
7 Reasons to Love Argentine Red Shrimp
1. Exceptional Flavor
Argentine red shrimp are known for their sweet, lobster-like flavor, making them a favorite in many gourmet dishes. This natural sweetness enhances any recipe, whether grilled, sautéed, or used in pasta.
2. Tender Texture
Unlike other shrimp, Argentine red shrimp have a tender, almost buttery texture. This makes them versatile in cooking, providing a melt-in-your-mouth experience that elevates simple recipes to a luxurious level.
3. Nutritional Benefits
These shrimp are rich in protein, low in fat, and provide essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids. Incorporating them into your diet supports heart health and offers a nutritious meal without excess calories.
4. Quick and Easy to Cook
Argentine red shrimp cook quickly, typically in just a few minutes. This makes them perfect for weeknight dinners or when you need a delicious meal in a hurry. Whether grilling, frying, or steaming, these shrimp are ready to eat in no time.
5. Versatile in Recipes
Their unique flavor and texture make Argentine red shrimp suitable for a wide range of recipes. From simple garlic butter shrimp to more complex dishes like seafood paella, they can be adapted to suit various cuisines and cooking styles.
6. Sustainable Seafood Choice
Argentine red shrimp are often harvested in a sustainable manner, making them a responsible choice for environmentally conscious consumers. Choosing these shrimp supports sustainable fishing practices and helps protect ocean ecosystems.
7. Impressive Presentation
With their vibrant red color and larger size, Argentine red shrimp add a visually appealing element to any dish. They are perfect for impressing guests at a dinner party or making any meal feel special.
Cooking Tips For Argentine Red Shrimp
1. Choose Fresh, High-Quality Shrimp
Tip: Ensure the shrimp is fresh or properly thawed if frozen. Look for shrimp with a firm texture, bright color, and a fresh sea smell.
Why: Freshness impacts flavor and texture, ensuring the best possible taste.
2. Do Not Overcook
Tip: Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Overcooking makes shrimp tough and rubbery.
Why: Red shrimp cook quickly, and precise timing preserves their tenderness.
3. Season Simply
Tip: Use simple seasonings like olive oil, garlic, lemon, salt, and pepper to enhance the shrimp’s natural sweetness.
Why: Red shrimp have a delicate flavor that pairs well with light, complementary seasonings.
4. Grill or Sear for Best Flavor
Tip: Grilling or searing red shrimp over high heat caramelizes their surface, enhancing flavor.
Why: These cooking methods add a smoky or rich taste that complements the shrimp’s sweetness.
5. Rest Before Serving
Tip: Let cooked shrimp rest for a minute or two before serving.
Why: Resting allows juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is flavorful and moist.
FAQ For the Fast and Easy Orzo Pasta with Argentine Red Shrimp Recipe
Q: What will I need to cook the orzo pasta with Argentine red shrimp recipe?
A: Orzo pasta with Argentinian Red Shrimp typically includes orzo pasta, Argentine red shrimp, garlic, olive oil, white wine, lemon juice, fresh herbs like parsley, and a touch of chili flakes for heat. The Argentine red shrimp adds a unique, sweet flavor to the dish.
Q: How do I cook the orzo pasta with Argentine red shrimp recipe?
A: To cook orzo pasta with Argentinian Red Shrimp, start by sautéing garlic in olive oil, then add the Argentine red shrimp until they turn pink. Cook the orzo pasta separately, then combine it with the shrimp, deglaze with white wine, and finish with lemon juice and herbs.
Q: What makes Argentine red shrimp unique in orzo pasta with Argentinian Red Shrimp?
A: Argentine red shrimp are unique in orzo pasta with Argentinian Red Shrimp because of their natural sweetness and tender texture, which enhances the overall flavor of the dish. These shrimp are larger and have a distinct red color, even when raw.
Q: Can you make orzo pasta with Argentinian Red Shrimp in advance?
A: Yes, you can make orzo pasta with Argentinian Red Shrimp in advance, but it’s best to add the Argentine red shrimp just before serving to keep them tender. Reheat the orzo pasta gently to avoid overcooking the shrimp.
Q: What side dishes pair well with orzo pasta with Argentinian Red Shrimp?
A: Orzo pasta with Argentinian Red Shrimp pairs well with a light green salad, grilled vegetables, or garlic bread. The dish’s flavors are complemented by sides that are fresh and not too heavy.
Orzo Pasta with Argentine Red Shrimp with Orzo Pasta
Equipment
- Large Frying Pan
- 10-Inch Non-Stick Skillet
- 2 Small Bowls
- Measuring Spoons
- Measuring Cups
- Sharp Knives
- Spatula
- Tongs
- De-veiner
- Cheese grater
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh Italian sausage link
- ½ pound fresh asparagus⅓
- ⅓ cup olive oil
- 4 tbsp butter
- ¾ pound fresh medium-sized Argentinian red shrimp (de-veined & cleaned)
- 1 tbsp fresh basil (chopped)
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ¼ tsp paprika
- ¼ tsp crushed red pepper
- ¼ cup dry vermouth
- 4 tsp crushed or chopped garlic
- 4 fresh, ripe Roma tomatoes (peeled, seeded & chopped)
- 1 ¾ cups chicken broth
- 1 ½ cups onion (chopped)
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- ¼ tsp saffron
- ⅓ cup white wine
- 1 cup water
- ½ cup fresh, Parmesan or Romano cheese (grated)
- salt to taste
- freshly ground pepper to taste
Instructions
In 1st Large Skillet
- In a large frying pan, cook the sausage in 1 1/2 tablespoons of the olive oil and 1 1/2 tablespoons of the butter over medium-high heat for about 12 to 14 minutes, turning occasionally.
- Remove the sausages before they are fully cooked.
- Cut the sausages into 1/4 to 1/2 inch, bite-sized pieces and set aside in a small bowl.
- Raise the heat to high.
- Put the shrimp into the skillet.
- Stir the shrimp to coat them in the butter and oil.
- Add the basil, oregano, paprika, crushed red pepper, the vermouth, and 1/2 of the garlic.
- Sauté the shrimp over high heat for about 3 minutes.
- With tongs, remove the shrimp only and set them aside in a small bowl.
- Put the tomatoes and 1/3 cup of the chicken broth into the skillet and let boil for about 3 minutes.
- Add the sausage back in. Turn off the heat and stir well.
Meanwhile, in a Second Skillet
- Heat the remaining olive oil in a 10-inch, non-stick skillet.
- Add the onion and remaining garlic, and cook them over medium-high heat for 3 or 4 minutes.
- Add in the pasta and the saffron.
- Stir well, until the pasta is well coated.
- Pour in the white wine and let simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Separately, dilute the remaining chicken broth with the cup of water.
- Stir in 3/4 of a cup of the diluted chicken broth to the mixture and let simmer until the liquid is mostly absorbed (about 5 minutes), stirring frequently.
Return to the First Skillet and Start Combining
- Return to the first pan with the sausage. Turn the heat on to medium-high.
- Add the pasta in with the sausage and another 3/4 cup of the diluted broth.
- Continue to simmer the mixture and stir until the liquid is absorbed again.
- Stir in the remaining diluted broth and continue simmering for a final 6 to 8 minutes.
- Just before the liquid is absorbed, add in the shrimp, asparagus, and the remaining butter.
- Continue to simmer for a couple more minutes. When the liquid is absorbed and the pasta is tender, turn off the heat and stir in the cheese until the sauce is creamy smooth.
- Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot.
1 comment
We tried this on our camping trip and it came out great.
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