Baked Orzo Pasta with Passata and Prawns: A Family Favorite!

Written by on in Pasta Dishes

Looking for a delicious and satisfying meal that’s both easy to prepare and bursting with flavour? Look no further than this mouthwatering Baked Orzo Pasta with Passata and Prawns! With a delicious passata base and juicy king prawns, this dish is sure to become a staple in your household.

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Baked orzo pasta with Prawns and Passata

Why You Should Try This Recipe:

  1. Rich and Flavorful: This baked orzo pasta dish is a delightful fusion of savoury flavours and comforting textures. The combination of juicy cherry tomatoes, tender courgette, sweet peppers, and aromatic garlic creates a symphony of taste that will tantalize your taste buds.
  2. Easy Preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced cooks alike. It’s a hassle-free option for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
  3. Nutritional Benefits: Packed with wholesome ingredients like vegetables, orzo pasta, and protein-rich prawns, this dish offers a balanced combination of nutrients to fuel your body and nourish your soul. It’s a delicious way to incorporate more vegetables and lean protein into your diet.
  4. Family Favorite: This baked orzo pasta is sure to please everyone at the table. Its comforting flavours and hearty portions make it a hit with both kids and adults alike.
Baked orzo pasta with Prawns and Passata

Nutritional Properties of the Ingredients:

  • Orzo Pasta: Orzo pasta is a versatile grain product made from semolina flour. It provides a good source of carbohydrates for energy and is a great alternative to traditional pasta shapes.
  • Cherry Tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes are rich in vitamins C and K, as well as antioxidants like lycopene, which may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases and promote overall health.
  • Courgette (Zucchini): Courgettes are low in calories and rich in fibre, vitamins, and minerals. They are particularly high in vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium, which support immune function, eye health, and blood pressure regulation.
  • Peppers: Peppers are loaded with vitamin C and other antioxidants, which help boost immunity and protect against cellular damage. They also provide fibre and are low in calories, making them a nutritious addition to any meal.
  • Prawns: Prawns are a lean source of protein and contain essential nutrients like selenium, vitamin B12, and omega-3 fatty acids. They support muscle growth and repair, brain health, and heart function.
Baked orzo pasta with Prawns and Passata

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) and Answers:

  1. Can I use other types of pasta instead of orzo? Yes, you can substitute orzo with other small pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or farfalle. Adjust cooking times accordingly based on the type of pasta you choose.
  2. Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and assemble the dish when ready to bake.
  3. Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried ones for the prawns? Absolutely! Fresh herbs like parsley or basil would add a burst of freshness to the prawns. Simply chop them finely and toss them with the prawns along with the olive oil and garlic powder.
  4. Can I make this dish vegetarian? Yes, you can omit the prawns and make a vegetarian version of this dish. Simply increase the amount of vegetables or add other protein sources like tofu or chickpeas for a delicious meat-free option.
  5. What can I serve with this baked orzo pasta dish? This dish is satisfying on its own but pairs well with a side salad, garlic bread, or a simple green vegetable like steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach.
Baked Orzo Pasta with Passata and Prawns: A Family Favorite!
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Baked Orzo Pasta with Passata and Prawns: A Family Favorite!

Recipe by XiolyCourse: Lunch, DinnerDifficulty: Easy
Servings

4

servings
Prep time

15

minutes
Cooking time

35

minutes
Total time

50

minutes

Ingredients

  • 300g Orzo pasta

  • 250g Cherry tomatoes

  • 1 courgette

  • 1 Bell pepper

  • 1 Onion

  • 2 Garlic cloves

  • 700ml vegetable stock

  • 400g Passata

  • 1 1/2 tsp salt

  • 50g Parmesan cheese

  • For the prawns:

  • 400g king prawns (raw & peeled)

  • 1 tbsp olive oil

  • 1 tsp garlic powder

  • 1 tsp dried parsley

  • Pinch of salt

Directions

  • Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
  • Chop the onion, garlic cloves, courgette, and pepper into small squares. Halve the cherry tomatoes.
  • Mix the prawns with the olive oil, garlic powder, dried parsley, and a pinch of salt. Set aside.
  • Assemble:
  • In a large baking tray, combine the orzo pasta, chopped vegetables, cherry tomatoes, and Passata.
  • Pour in the vegetable stock and sprinkle with salt. Mix well to combine all ingredients evenly.
  • Bake:
  • Cover the baking tray with foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 20 minutes.
  • After baking for 20 minutes, remove the foil and give the mixture a good stir.
  • Add the Parmesan and Prawns:
  • Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top.
  • Arrange the seasoned prawns on top of the parmesan.
  • Return the baking tray to the oven and bake, uncovered, for an additional 15 minutes.
  • Serve and Enjoy:
  • Once baked to perfection, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool for around 5 minutes before serving.

Watch the Recipe Video:

@seeolee_cooks

Ingredients: 300g Orzo pasta 250g cherry tomatoes 1 courgette 1 pepper 1 onion 2 garlic cloves 700ml veggie stock 400g Passata 1 1/2 tsp salt 50g Parmesan cheese For the prawns: 400g king prawns (raw & peeled) 1 tbsp olive oil 1tsp garlic powder 1tsp dried parsley Pinch of salt #healthyrecipes

♬ Scandalo al sole – Percy Faith