Shrimp and Rice Pilaf (Print)

Tender shrimp, aromatic rice, and fresh vegetables create a colorful main for everyday or special occasions.

# Ingredients:

→ Seafood

01 - 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined

→ Rice and Grains

02 - 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed

→ Aromatics and Vegetables

03 - 1 small onion, finely chopped
04 - 2 garlic cloves, minced
05 - 1 medium carrot, diced
06 - 1 red bell pepper, diced
07 - 1 cup frozen peas

→ Liquids and Fats

08 - 2 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
09 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
10 - Juice of 1 lemon

→ Seasonings and Fresh Herbs

11 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
12 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
13 - 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
14 - 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
15 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
16 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

# Directions:

01 - Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and half of the smoked paprika. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.
02 - Add the remaining olive oil to the same pan. Sauté the chopped onion and diced carrot for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic, diced red bell pepper, cumin, thyme, and the remaining smoked paprika. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
03 - Add the rinsed long-grain white rice to the pan and stir to coat it with the aromatics. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and simmer for 15 minutes.
04 - Stir in the frozen peas and return the cooked shrimp to the pan, nestling them into the rice. Cover the pan again and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been fully absorbed.
05 - Remove the pan from the heat. Drizzle with fresh lemon juice, gently fluff the rice with a fork, and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Uses easy-to-find ingredients that are likely in your kitchen right now
  • Perfect balance of protein and veggies for a well-rounded meal
  • Naturally dairy-free and easy to make pescatarian
  • One-pan means less cleanup and more time to enjoy with family
  • Shrimp cooks up fork-tender and never rubbery when you follow these detailed steps
02 -
  • Packed with protein and fiber for a satisfying meal
  • Leftovers make tasty lunches and reheat beautifully
  • Adjusts easily for mild or bold flavors depending on your spice tolerance
03 -
  • Use a heavy-bottomed skillet for even heat and no scorched rice
  • Taste as you go with salt and lemon for perfect seasoning balance
  • Let the finished pilaf rest covered for a minute or two before fluffing to finish steaming the rice
  • If you want extra golden crust on the bottom cook five extra minutes uncovered for a toasty finish
  • Nothing beats a squeeze of fresh lemon over each plate just before serving

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