Shrimp Orzo Feta Recipe
If you’re on the hunt for a stunning one-pan meal that’s bold, bright, and packed with Mediterranean flavors, you can’t beat Shrimp Orzo Feta. Plump, juicy shrimp atop a bed of tender orzo, all swirled together with sweet tomatoes, briny feta, and a pop of lemon—this is the kind of dish that feels both comforting and a little bit celebratory. Whether you’re having company over or just want to elevate your weeknight dinner game, Shrimp Orzo Feta brings so much to the table in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Shrimp Orzo Feta recipe is packed with straightforward ingredients, but each one brings something special to the party—think silky texture, vibrant color, or that undeniable hit of zesty, savory flavor. Here’s what you’ll need to make it come alive:
- Large shrimp: Fresh or thawed shrimp keep this dish light and juicy, plus they cook up in minutes!
- Olive oil: Divided between sautéing the shrimp and building flavor in the skillet—don’t skimp on a good quality one.
- Garlic: Minced fresh garlic releases an incredible aroma and depth that’s essential here.
- Onion: A chopped small onion softens and sweetens as it cooks, elevating the base of the sauce.
- Orzo pasta: This rice-shaped pasta soaks up all the saucy goodness and makes the dish hearty without feeling heavy.
- Chicken or vegetable broth: It infuses the orzo with flavor as it cooks—choose low-sodium if you prefer.
- Diced tomatoes: One can works magic with just the right amount of acidity and sweetness.
- Dried oregano: Brings that signature Greek flavor and herby warmth to every bite.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a gentle kick; adjust to your spice preference.
- Salt and black pepper: Enhance all the flavors, season to taste as you go.
- Baby spinach (optional): Folds in a little green and extra nutrients right at the end.
- Crumbled feta cheese: Salty, creamy feta balances everything with tang and richness.
- Fresh parsley: A handful of chopped parsley adds fresh color and brightness just before serving.
- Lemon juice: The juice from half a lemon brings everything together with zingy acidity.
How to Make Shrimp Orzo Feta
Step 1: Sauté the Shrimp
Heat up one tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add your peeled and deveined shrimp, season them with a bit of salt and pepper, and cook each side for about two to three minutes until they turn that perfect shade of pink. You want them just opaque—any longer and they’ll lose their tenderness. Once cooked, take the shrimp out and set aside for later.
Step 2: Build the Flavor Base
In the same skillet (all those savory shrimp bits are flavor gold!), pour in your remaining olive oil and toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Stir and cook for two minutes or until the onions start looking translucent and everything smells irresistible.
Step 3: Toast the Orzo
Let’s give the orzo a quick toast! Stir in the uncooked orzo and let it get slightly golden for about one minute. Toasting brings out a subtle nuttiness and keeps the pasta nicely textured even as it simmers.
Step 4: Simmer with Broth and Tomatoes
Add in your chicken or vegetable broth, diced tomatoes (with their juices), dried oregano, red pepper flakes (if you love a little fire), the remaining salt, and pepper. Stir everything together, bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for about 10 to 12 minutes, giving it a good stir every now and then to keep the orzo from sticking, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Step 5: Wilt the Spinach and Return the Shrimp
If you’re using baby spinach, stir it in now so it has just enough time to wilt—this only takes a minute or two. Nestle the cooked shrimp back into the skillet and toss gently so all those flavors can mingle and every shrimp gets coated in the aromatic sauce.
Step 6: Finish with Feta, Herbs, and Lemon
Take the pan off the heat, then generously sprinkle the crumbled feta over everything. Add the chopped parsley and a big squeeze of lemon juice. The combination of cool feta, herbal brightness, and citrus makes Shrimp Orzo Feta positively sing!
How to Serve Shrimp Orzo Feta
Garnishes
The classic finish for Shrimp Orzo Feta is a flourish of freshly chopped parsley and extra crumbled feta. A wedge of lemon on the side offers a last-minute burst of brightness and an extra drizzle of good olive oil will make it truly Mediterranean. If you want a little more heat, don’t be afraid to sprinkle on a pinch of extra red pepper flakes!
Side Dishes
Because Shrimp Orzo Feta is so robust, you don’t need much on the side. A simple Greek salad or some grilled vegetables add crunch and freshness. Warm, crusty bread is perfect for soaking up every last bit of the saucy orzo. Or, if you’re feeling fancy, a chilled glass of crisp white wine brings everything together beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
This dish looks beautiful piled high in a wide, shallow bowl garnished with whole parsley leaves for a dinner party. For a more casual, family-style meal, serve Shrimp Orzo Feta straight from the skillet—it’s irresistibly inviting and encourages everyone to dig in. Or try spooning it into halved roasted peppers for a colorful twist on stuffed veggies.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover Shrimp Orzo Feta, let it cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to three days. The orzo may soak up some of the sauce, but that makes it even more flavorful the next day!
Freezing
While you can freeze Shrimp Orzo Feta, keep in mind that both shrimp and orzo change texture after freezing. If you do freeze it, use a freezer-safe container and try to eat it within a month for the best taste. Thawed shrimp can sometimes become a bit rubbery, so for optimal texture, enjoy this dish fresh when possible.
Reheating
To reheat, add a splash of broth or water to loosen things up, then warm gently on the stove or in the microwave until everything is heated through. Stir halfway to keep the feta creamy and the shrimp moist. Add a squeeze of fresh lemon and a sprinkle of parsley to liven it up before serving again!
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for Shrimp Orzo Feta?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator and pat dry before cooking so they sear properly and don’t water down the dish.
What’s the best way to make this dairy-free?
You can skip the feta or try a dairy-free alternative. The dish will still be vibrant and satisfying, though you’ll miss that classic briny note the cheese provides.
Can I swap orzo for another pasta?
Yes, other small-shape pastas like pastina or rice-shaped pasta work well, but orzo’s soft texture and quick cook time really make Shrimp Orzo Feta special.
Is there a vegetarian version of Shrimp Orzo Feta?
You can simply leave out the shrimp and add more veggies—zucchini, roasted red peppers, or artichokes are all wonderful additions. Use vegetable broth, and it becomes an easy vegetarian meal.
How spicy is this recipe?
The kick in Shrimp Orzo Feta comes from the red pepper flakes, which you can adjust from a subtle glow to a full-on sizzle, depending on your preference—or skip them entirely for a mild, kid-friendly version.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a fresh dinner idea that blends comfort and elegance in every bite, Shrimp Orzo Feta won’t let you down. Give it a try, let those sunny Mediterranean flavors brighten up your table, and don’t be surprised when everyone comes back for seconds!
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Shrimp Orzo Feta Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Shrimp Orzo Feta recipe is a delightful Mediterranean-inspired dish that combines succulent shrimp with orzo pasta, tangy feta cheese, and a burst of flavors from tomatoes, garlic, and herbs. It’s a perfect main course for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Shrimp:
1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
Olive Oil:
2 tablespoons, divided
Garlic:
2 cloves, minced
Onion:
1 small, chopped
Orzo Pasta:
1 cup, uncooked
Chicken or Vegetable Broth:
2 cups
Diced Tomatoes:
1 can (14.5 ounces)
Dried Oregano:
1 teaspoon
Red Pepper Flakes:
½ teaspoon (optional)
Salt:
½ teaspoon
Black Pepper:
¼ teaspoon
Baby Spinach:
1 cup (optional)
Feta Cheese:
½ cup, crumbled
Parsley:
2 tablespoons, chopped
Lemon Juice:
Juice of ½ lemon
Instructions
- Cook Shrimp: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet. Cook shrimp with salt and pepper until pink and opaque. Set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add remaining olive oil, onion, and garlic. Cook until fragrant.
- Add Orzo and Broth: Stir in orzo and toast lightly. Add broth, diced tomatoes, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Simmer until orzo is tender.
- Finish Dish: Stir in spinach, return shrimp to skillet. Remove from heat and top with feta, parsley, and lemon juice. Serve warm.
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate shrimp in olive oil, lemon, and garlic for 15 minutes before cooking.
- This dish pairs well with zucchini or roasted red peppers.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ½ cups
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 720 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 44 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 29 g
- Cholesterol: 180 mg
