Description
This Greek Shrimp with Orzo and Feta recipe is a vibrant, flavorful one-pan dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Succulent shrimp are seared with garlic and spices, then combined with tender orzo pasta, juicy cherry tomatoes, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and creamy feta cheese. Finished with a fresh squeeze of citrus and herbs, this Mediterranean-inspired meal offers a delightful balance of savory, zesty, and fresh flavors in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp and Seasoning
- 1 pound large raw shrimp, peeled, deveined, tails removed
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Pasta and Vegetables
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 1/4 cups chicken broth or water
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1/3 cup Kalamata or black olives, pitted and halved
Finishing Touches
- Juice of 1 lime or lemon (about 2 tablespoons)
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil or parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Cook Orzo: In a medium saucepan, bring chicken broth or water to a simmer. Add orzo pasta and cook until tender, about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add more liquid as needed to prevent sticking. Drain any excess liquid and set the orzo aside.
- Sear the Shrimp: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes if using. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until they turn pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Combine Ingredients: In the same skillet, add cherry tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, and Kalamata olives. Stir and cook for 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes start to soften and everything is warmed through. Return the cooked orzo and shrimp to the skillet and gently toss to combine all the ingredients evenly.
- Finish and Garnish: Remove the skillet from heat. Drizzle fresh lime or lemon juice over the mixture. Top with crumbled feta cheese and sprinkle with chopped basil or parsley. Serve immediately for best freshness and flavor.
Notes
- If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- For a vegetarian version, replace shrimp with sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas and use vegetable broth for cooking the orzo.
- Sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil will add extra richness; drain them if using the dry-packed variety.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; reheat gently to avoid overcooking the shrimp.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Greek
