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Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp

Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp: Your Easy Mediterranean Delight

Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp is a quick and delicious Mediterranean dish featuring shrimp and orzo, ready in just 35 minutes.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Orzo Base
  • 1 cup Orzo pasta Acts as the base providing texture and heartiness to the dish; substitute with any small pasta.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive oil Essential for sautéing; adds richness; can use grapeseed or avocado oil.
For the Shrimp
  • 1 pound Large shrimp The main protein; use chicken or tofu for a different protein.
  • 3 cloves Garlic, minced Adds aromatic flavor; essential to the dish's base.
For Brightness and Flavor
  • 1 teaspoon Lemon zest Brightens the dish with freshness; can substitute with lime zest.
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh lemon juice Enhances acidity and balance; freshly squeezed is recommended.
For Seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon Salt Enhances overall flavor; adjust to taste.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Black pepper Adds a touch of heat; white pepper can be substituted.
For Freshness and Creaminess
  • 1/4 cup Fresh parsley, chopped Provides a fresh herbal note; can be swapped with basil or cilantro.
  • 1/2 cup Feta cheese, crumbled Contributes creaminess and tanginess; goat cheese is a good alternative.
  • 2 cups Cherry tomatoes, halved Adds sweetness and juiciness; sub with sun-dried tomatoes.
  • 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced Introduces a briny flavor; green olives or capers are good substitutes.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Large Skillet
  • Spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions for about 8-10 minutes, or until al dente, stirring occasionally. Once cooked, drain the orzo and set it aside in a large bowl, allowing it to cool slightly while you prepare the shrimp.
  2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the large shrimp in a single layer. Cook them for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and keep them warm on a plate.
  3. In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and reduce the heat to medium. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, stirring frequently, until fragrant but pale.
  4. Stir in the lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, salt, and black pepper into the skillet, mixing well. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 1 minute to develop the flavors.
  5. Next, add the cooked orzo, sautéed shrimp, chopped parsley, crumbled feta, halved cherry tomatoes, and sliced Kalamata olives into the skillet. Gently toss everything together for about 2-3 minutes until heated through and well-coated in the lemony sauce.
  6. Taste your Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper as necessary. Serve immediately, garnished with extra parsley and feta if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 200mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Ensure shrimp are cooked just until pink and opaque; overcooking can lead to a rubbery texture. Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.

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