Mediterranean Shrimp Orzo
Ingredients:
-1 lb. large shrimp, peeled and deveined
-1 lb. uncooked orzo
-1/2 cup olive oil
-2 cloves garlic, minced
-1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
-1/2 cup kalamata olives, pitted and halved
-1/4 cup white wine
-1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
-2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
-1/2 teaspoon salt
-1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add orzo and cook according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook until shrimp are just cooked through, about 4 minutes.
4. Add cherry tomatoes, olives, white wine, parsley, lemon juice, salt and pepper. Cook until tomatoes are softened, about 3 minutes.
5. Add cooked orzo and stir to combine. Cook until heated through, about 2 minutes.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!
The Mediterranean Diet is not just a diet; it’s an eating lifestyle. This traditional diet has been eaten in the Mediterranean region for centuries. The idea behind the diet is to emphasize fresh and whole foods that are rich in healthy fats and proteins, while limiting processed foods, grains and sugar.
The Mediterranean diet is composed of fresh fruits and vegetables like tomatoes, zucchini, lettuce, olives, oranges and avocados. Healthy proteins such as fish and poultry, as well as legumes, are eaten in moderation. Dairy is limited, but when it’s consumed it’s usually in the form of yogurt, cheese or low-fat milk. Fats and oils, such as olive oil, are incorporated heavily into meals, as they provide numerous health benefits. Nuts and seeds are also included as snacks and in dishes. Grains are eaten in smaller quantities and are primarily whole grains, such as whole wheat bread or pasta.
When preparing Mediterranean food it is important to use fresh, quality ingredients. Most dishes begin with some type of olive oil-based preparation such as sautéing vegetables in olive oil, drizzling olive oil over salads, or adding a bit of oil to a dish. Many cooks also often use herbs and spices, such as oregano, rosemary and garlic, to enhance flavors. To add protein, dishes can include grilled shrimp, fish, chicken, and meats. Olive-based dressings, such as tzatziki, also provide a lot of flavor, and can be made to pair nicely with particular dishes.
Creating Mediterranean food is a great way to eat healthy and incorporate delicious flavors into your diet. The best way to create Mediterranean food is to focus on fresh ingredients, limit processed foods, and use spices and herbs to provide flavor. Using olive oil to dress and cook dishes is also a great way to incorporate the Mediterranean Diet into your meals.