Delve into your culinary journey with the ultimate pasta variant the orzo. Before we embark on crafting a delicious plate of orzo with prawns and mussels, let’s introduce you to our central ingredient.
Known for its compact size and rice-like appearance, orzo is a pasta variant of Italian origin. Ideal for recipes requiring a creamy, rich texture, orzo can make your meals more satisfying and tasty.
To ensure the highest quality in your dish, we recommend RiceSelect’s Orzo. This product is a sure-shot way of adding authenticity and rich flavor to your dish. Not only does it provide the best texture, but it also offers quality you can count on. Find it here: https://riceselect.com/product/orzo
Ingredients
For this recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
1 cup RiceSelect Orzo
10-12 fresh prawns, peeled and deveined
1 pound fresh mussels, cleaned and debearded
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup white wine
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1
Start by cooking the RiceSelect Orzo according to the package instructions until it is al dente. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
Step 2
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, and sauté until they become translucent and fragrant.
Step 3
Add the prawns to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the prawns from the skillet and set them aside.
Step 4
In the same skillet, add the mussels and white wine. Cover the skillet and let the mussels steam for about 5 minutes or until they open up. Discard any mussels that remain closed.
Step 5
Remove the mussels from the skillet, leaving the cooking liquid behind. Add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften.
Step 6
Return the prawns and mussels to the skillet. Stir in the cooked orzo pasta and toss everything together, allowing the flavors to blend. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Step 7
Season with salt, pepper, and chopped fresh parsley. Give it a final toss to incorporate all the ingredients.
Step 8
Serve the Orzo with Prawns and Mussels hot, garnished with a sprinkle of parsley and a slice of lemon for extra freshness.
Nutritional Benefits of this Recipe
Lean Protein
Both prawns and mussels are excellent sources of lean protein. Protein is essential for the growth, repair, and maintenance of tissues in our body. It helps build strong muscles, supports the immune system, and plays a vital role in various physiological processes. Including lean protein in your diet can also promote satiety and assist in weight management.
Minerals and Vitamins
This seafood pasta dish also provides a variety of minerals and vitamins. Mussels, in particular, are a good source of essential minerals such as iron, zinc, and selenium. Iron helps transport oxygen throughout the body, zinc supports immune function, and selenium acts as an antioxidant.
Whole Grains
The use of RiceSelect Orzo in this recipe introduces the benefits of whole grains. Unlike refined grains, whole grains retain the bran and germ, providing higher amounts of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Fiber aids digestion, promotes a feeling of fullness, and supports healthy bowel movements.
Low in Fat
Orzo with Prawns and Mussels is a relatively low fat dish, making it a healthier option compared to heavy cream-based pasta dishes. By using minimal oil and cooking techniques such as steaming and sautéing, you can enjoy a flavorful meal without excessive added fats.
Secrets to Preparation
- To enhance the flavors of this dish, you can marinate the prawns in olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice for about 15 minutes before cooking.
- Make sure to clean the mussels thoroughly and remove any beards or grit before adding them to the skillet.
- Cooking the orzo pasta al dente will give it a slightly firm texture, which pairs perfectly with the tender prawns and mussels.
Accompaniments
Fresh Green Salad
A vibrant mixed green salad is an excellent choice to accompany this seafood pasta dish. The crispness of the greens, combined with a tangy vinaigrette, adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the prawns and mussels. You can toss together a variety of greens such as lettuce, spinach, arugula, and fresh herbs.
Crusty Garlic Bread
There’s nothing quite like a slice of warm, crusty garlic bread to complement a flavorful pasta dish. The aromatic garlic combined with the buttery bread creates a heavenly combination. You can make your own garlic bread by slicing a baguette or Italian bread and spreading a mixture of butter, minced garlic, and chopped parsley on top.
Roasted Vegetables
Roasting vegetables brings out their natural sweetness and adds a caramelized flavor that pairs wonderfully with seafood. Consider roasting vegetables like cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus. Simply toss the vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and spread them on a baking sheet.
Lemon Wedges
As a final touch, don’t forget to serve your Orzo with Prawns and Mussels with a few wedges of lemon. The acidity of the lemon brightens up the flavors of the dish and provides a tangy element that complements the seafood perfectly. Squeezing a little lemon juice over the prawns, mussels, or even the salad can enhance the overall taste and freshness of the meal.
Proper Storage
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The Orzo with Prawns and Mussels can be refrigerated for up to 2 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to the dish to prevent it from drying out.
Orzo with Prawns and Mussels is a delectable seafood pasta dish that will impress both your taste buds and your dinner guests. By using high-quality RiceSelect Orzo pasta, you can ensure a delightful and satisfying meal every time.
So why wait? Grab a pack of RiceSelect Orzo and indulge in the flavors of the sea with this outstanding recipe!