One-Pot Orzo with Shrimp

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Select your microwave wattage in the dropdown. The cook times in this recipe will automatically change accordingly.

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To find your microwave’s wattage, look at the front panel, the side of the door, in the back, in the user manual, or Google the model number. If both an input and output wattage are listed, use the output.

Wattage translates to how powerful the microwave is. The higher the wattage, the faster your food will cook. The lower the wattage, the longer the cook time.

When in doubt, start with less time — you can always add more.

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Recommended 

Dish

The Medium Deep Dish

Ingredients

  • 1 teaspoon minced garlic
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • ¼ teaspoon chili flakes
  • 6 frozen or fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • ½ cup (80g) cherry tomatoes, halved
  • ½ cup (90g) orzo pasta
  • 1 cup (240ml) chicken stock, or water
  • ¼ cup (35g) crumbled feta, plus more for topping
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh baby arugula (Optional)

Preparation

  1. Add the garlic, olive oil, oregano, chili flakes, shrimp, salt, and pepper to the Deep Dish and toss to coat the shrimp evenly.
  2. Add the remaining ingredients and stir to combine.
  3. Cover with lid (knob lifted) and cook in the microwave at Power Level 7

    Certain foods cook best in the microwave at lower power levels. 

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    Different microwaves have different settings. See your microwave manual (or look it up online) to learn how to change your microwave’s power level.

    For many microwaves: enter the cook time, press the “Power” (or “Power Level”) button, and select a number between 1-10. Other microwaves may require selecting the Power Level first, and then entering the cook time.

    Microwaves list power levels in different ways. Here’s a guide to help you adjust:

    PL 10 = 100% = High (default)

    PL 9 = 90% = High

    PL 8 = 80% = Med-High

    PL 7 = 70% = Med-High

    PL 6 = 60% = Medium

    PL 5 = 50% = Medium

    PL 4 = 40% = Med-Low

    PL 3 = 30% = Med-Low

    PL 2 = 20% = Low

    PL 1 = 10% = Low

    You will know if the power level has been successfully changed if you hear periodic changes in the microwave’s tone after it begins cooking.

    for 13-14 minutes, or until the pasta and shrimp are cooked and the liquids are fully absorbed.
  4. Stir in some crumbled feta cheese and top with fresh arugula for color and freshness.

Suggestions

  • Try this recipe with diced chicken or tofu for a seafood-free dish.
  • If orzo is not available, try this dish with any small pasta like ditalini or macaroni.
  • Swap the feta for goat cheese or ricotta for a creamier alternative.
  • Add frozen sliced peppers with the shrimp.

Recipe Notes

  • Marinating the shrimp overnight will result in a more flavorful dish!
  • Use frozen shrimp in this recipe! Since we’re cooking this dish at a lower power level, there’s no need to defrost the shrimp before cooking.
  • Microwave ovens vary, even with the same wattages. Adjust cooking times as needed.

All You Need to Know About Making One-Pot Orzo with Shrimp in the Microwave

Can you make one-pot meals in the microwave?

Yes, you can! Actually, the microwave is the perfect appliance for cooking one-dish recipes. Using an Anyday dish removes the need to boil the water before cooking the pasta for this recipe, making it the ultimate one-pot and one-button recipe.

Why do I need to lower the power level for this recipe?

Lowering the power level for this recipe helps to ensure that the orzo and shrimp cook evenly without overcooking or drying out. It also prevents the starches in the cooking liquid from bubbling over. A gentler cooking process allows the flavors to develop more thoroughly and prevents the ingredients from becoming tough or rubbery.

Can I use fresh shrimp instead of frozen shrimp in this recipe?

Yes, you can use fresh shrimp instead of frozen shrimp in this recipe, just make sure the shrimp is cleaned and peeled. There is no need to adjust cook time, the power level reduction will prevent the shrimp from getting rubbery.

How long will leftovers of One-Pot Orzo with Shrimp last in the refrigerator?

Leftovers of One-Pot Orzo with Shrimp can last in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days when stored in an Anyday dish with the lid on. To reheat, cook for 1- 4 minutes at full power depending on serving size, or until heated through.

Can I freeze leftovers of this dish for later use?

Yes, you can freeze leftovers of this dish for later use. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to the Anytime Freezer Trays and store it in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.

What's the best way to reheat One-pot Orzo with Shrimp?

The best way to reheat One-Pot Orzo with Shrimp is to place it in the microwave. To reheat, simply cook for 1- 4 minutes at full power depending on serving size, or until heated through.

Can I substitute the orzo pasta with another type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute orzo pasta with another type of pasta such as small elbows, shells, ditalini, or even orecchiette. Just be mindful of the cooking time of different pasta shapes, so add 1-4 more minutes at the same power level if needed.

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