Shrimp and Rice Pilaf

A delicious and easy-to-make dish where succulent shrimp meets a fluffy, seasoned rice pilaf, creating the perfect one-pan meal!

Ingredients

1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined 🍤

1 cup long-grain white rice 🍚

2 tablespoons olive oil 🫒

1 small onion, chopped 🧅

2 cloves garlic, minced 🧄

1/2 cup chicken broth or vegetable broth 🍲

1/2 cup frozen peas 🌱

1/2 teaspoon paprika 🌶️

1/4 teaspoon cumin 🌿

Salt and pepper to taste 🧂

1 tablespoon lemon juice 🍋

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) 🌿

Instructions

1️⃣ Cook the Rice Pilaf 🍚:

In a medium pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.

Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.

Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.

Add the rice, paprika, cumin, and a pinch of salt and pepper, stirring for about 1-2 minutes to lightly toast the rice.

Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.

Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed. If using peas, add them to the rice for the last 5 minutes of cooking.

2️⃣ Cook the Shrimp 🍤:

While the rice is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika.

Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque.

Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

3️⃣ Combine and Finish 🍋:

Once the rice is done, fluff it with a fork.

Gently fold in the cooked shrimp and lemon juice. Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

4️⃣ Serve & Garnish 🍽️:

Serve the shrimp and rice pilaf in bowls, garnished with freshly chopped parsley.

Serving Suggestions:

🥗 Pair with a side salad or some steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

🍷 Enjoy with a glass of white wine, like Pinot Grigio, to complement the light flavors of the dish.

Tips & Variations:

✅ Add diced bell peppers or mushrooms to the rice for extra flavor.

✅ For a spicy kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the shrimp before cooking. 🌶️

✅ For extra richness, stir in a tablespoon of butter into the rice before serving.

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