Orzo with Seafood is a comforting and flavorful one-pan dish that combines tender orzo pasta with fresh seafood in a light, savory sauce. Although orzo looks like rice, it is actually a small pasta that cooks quickly and absorbs the flavors of the broth, herbs, garlic, and seafood beautifully. Combined with shrimp, mussels, scallops, and calamari, this dish creates a satisfying meal that's perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

One of the best things about Orzo with Seafood is its simplicity. The ingredients are easy to find, the cooking process is straightforward, and everything comes together in a single pan. This beginner-friendly recipe explains each step in detail, helping you prepare a delicious Mediterranean-inspired seafood meal with confidence.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This recipe is:

  • Easy to prepare, even for beginners
  • Ready in about 45 minutes
  • Made in one pan for easy cleanup
  • Rich in seafood flavor
  • Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests
  • Easy to customize with your favorite seafood

Ingredients

For the Seafood

  • 8 ounces (225 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 8 ounces (225 g) mussels, cleaned
  • 6 ounces (170 g) calamari, sliced into rings
  • 6 ounces (170 g) sea scallops
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper

For the Orzo

  • 1½ cups orzo pasta
  • 3 cups seafood stock
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • ½ cup dry white wine (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

For Garnish

  • Fresh parsley
  • Lemon wedges
  • Extra grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Step 1: Prepare the Seafood

Wash the mussels thoroughly under cold water and scrub the shells.

Discard any mussels that are cracked or remain open after being gently tapped.

Pat the shrimp, scallops, and calamari dry with paper towels.

Season the shrimp and scallops lightly with salt and black pepper.

Step 2: Cook the Seafood

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat.

Cook the shrimp for about 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.

Sear the scallops for about 2 minutes per side until golden brown.

Cook the calamari for 1–2 minutes, just until tender.

Transfer the cooked seafood to a plate.

Add the mussels and white wine (if using) to the same pan.

Cover and cook for 5–6 minutes, or until the mussels open.

Discard any mussels that remain closed.

Remove the mussels and reserve the cooking liquid.

Step 3: Cook the Aromatics

Reduce the heat to medium.

Melt the butter in the same pan.

Add the chopped onion and cook for about 3–4 minutes until soft.

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Add the cherry tomatoes, oregano, and smoked paprika.

Cook for about 4–5 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften and release their juices.

Step 4: Cook the Orzo

Add the dry orzo to the pan.

Stir for about 2 minutes so the pasta becomes lightly coated with the flavorful mixture.

Pour in the seafood stock along with the reserved mussel cooking liquid.

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.

If necessary, add a little more warm stock if the orzo becomes dry before it is fully cooked.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the shrimp, scallops, calamari, and mussels to the pan.

Add the fresh lemon juice and chopped parsley.

If using Parmesan cheese, stir it in now until it melts into the sauce.

Mix everything gently and cook for 1–2 minutes, just until the seafood is heated through.

Step 6: Serve

Spoon the Orzo with Seafood into serving bowls.

Garnish with extra parsley, grated Parmesan cheese, and fresh lemon wedges.

Serve immediately while hot.

Helpful Tips for Beginners

Do not overcook the seafood. Shrimp should be pink, scallops should be lightly golden, and calamari should cook quickly to stay tender.

Reserve the liquid from the cooked mussels, as it adds wonderful seafood flavor to the orzo.

Stir the orzo occasionally while it cooks to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.

Taste the broth before adding extra salt because seafood stock and mussels naturally contain salt.

Easy Variations

This recipe is easy to customize.

  • Add crab meat for extra sweetness.
  • Include lobster pieces for a luxurious version.
  • Stir in baby spinach during the final few minutes of cooking.
  • Add green peas for extra color.
  • Replace Parmesan with crumbled feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist.
  • Finish with fresh basil instead of parsley for a different herbal flavor.

What to Serve with Orzo with Seafood

This dish pairs beautifully with:

  • Garlic bread
  • Warm focaccia
  • Mixed green salad
  • Caesar salad
  • Roasted asparagus
  • Grilled zucchini
  • Steamed broccoli
  • Marinated olives
  • Roasted vegetables
  • Lemon wedges

These sides complement the rich seafood flavors while keeping the meal fresh and balanced.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen seafood?

Yes. Thaw the seafood completely in the refrigerator before cooking and pat it dry to remove excess moisture.

Is orzo rice?

No. Although it resembles rice, orzo is a type of small pasta made from wheat.

Can I make this recipe without wine?

Absolutely. Simply replace the white wine with additional seafood stock or chicken broth.

How should leftovers be stored?

Store leftover Orzo with Seafood in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of seafood stock or water to restore its creamy consistency.

Final Thoughts

Orzo with Seafood is a comforting Mediterranean-inspired meal that combines tender pasta, fresh seafood, aromatic vegetables, and a light, flavorful sauce into one satisfying dish. It's elegant enough for entertaining yet simple enough to prepare on a busy weeknight.

With this easy step-by-step recipe, you'll be able to create a delicious homemade seafood pasta that looks impressive and tastes even better. Serve it with warm bread, a crisp salad, and fresh lemon wedges for a complete meal that's sure to become a favorite.