Baked Orzo with Harissa Prawns Recipe

Baked Orzo with Harissa Prawns is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that combines the creamy texture of baked orzo with the bold, spicy kick of harissa-marinated prawns. The orzo soaks up all the savory juices, creating a comforting, aromatic one-pan meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special meal for guests, this dish is a great balance of heat, sweetness, and smokiness. Here’s how to make it:

Baked Orzo with Harissa Prawns Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Harissa Prawns:

• 1 lb (450g) large prawns, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons harissa paste (adjust to your preferred spice level)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Orzo:

• 1 1/2 cups (270g) orzo pasta
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, diced (optional, for added sweetness and crunch)
• 1 can (14 oz/400g) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup (240ml) vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon ground coriander
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish
• Feta cheese or goat cheese (optional, for serving)

Instructions:

1. Marinate the Prawns:

• In a bowl, combine the prawns with harissa paste, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Toss well to coat and let them marinate for at least 15 minutes while you prepare the orzo.

2. Cook the Orzo:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the orzo according to package instructions (usually 7-8 minutes for al dente). Drain and set aside.

3. Prepare the Base:

• Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or baking dish over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper (if using). Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
• Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

4. Combine the Ingredients:

• Stir in the smoked paprika, cumin, and ground coriander, and cook for 30 seconds to toast the spices.
• Add the canned diced tomatoes (with juice) and broth. Bring to a simmer, then add the cooked orzo to the pan, stirring to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Bake the Orzo:

• Once the orzo and sauce are well-mixed, make sure the mixture is evenly spread out in the pan.
• Place the marinated prawns on top of the orzo mixture, nestling them in slightly. You can arrange the prawns in a single layer for an even cook.
• Transfer the skillet or dish to the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the prawns are pink and opaque, and the orzo is cooked through.

6. Garnish and Serve:

• Once out of the oven, garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro for a burst of color and freshness.
• Optionally, crumble feta cheese or goat cheese on top for added richness.
• Serve the dish hot, and enjoy the comforting flavors of baked orzo with the bold, spicy prawns!

Tips:

• Adjust the spice: If you like it less spicy, reduce the amount of harissa paste in the marinade, or swap it for a mild version. Alternatively, for more heat, add a pinch of chili flakes.
• Make it vegetarian: For a vegetarian version, you can skip the prawns and add roasted vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or sweet potatoes, or use chickpeas for protein.
• Add greens: You can toss in some spinach or kale to the orzo mixture for added nutrition.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve with a simple salad: A crisp green salad with a lemony dressing would pair beautifully with the richness of the baked orzo.
• Pair with a glass of white wine: A light, crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio would complement the spiced prawns and tomato-based orzo perfectly.

This Baked Orzo with Harissa Prawns is a delicious, one-pan meal that brings together smoky, spicy flavors with the creamy texture of baked orzo. It’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection! Enjoy!