Name: Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 cup orzo pasta; 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided; 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon lemon zest; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese; 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/4 cup kalamata olives, pitted and sliced

Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp is one of those delightful dishes that just fills your kitchen with sunshine. The blend of fresh lemon, savory feta, and plump shrimp is a match made in culinary heaven. I can’t get enough of this dish, especially when the weather turns warm! It’s light yet satisfying, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or an inviting weekend gathering. Plus, it comes together so quickly, which means more time to enjoy your meal!

Why make this recipe

Who doesn’t love a one-pan meal that bursts with flavor? This Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp is not only delicious but also super easy to whip up. The orzo pasta soaks in all those bright lemony notes along with the rich and creamy feta. The cherry tomatoes and olives add little pops of sweetness and saltiness that make each bite exciting. It’s colorful, healthy, and perfect for impressing guests or just enjoying during a cozy night in. Trust me, once you make this, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen!

How to make Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp

Let’s dive into making this yummy dish together.

Ingredients:

1 cup orzo pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon lemon zest
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup kalamata olives, pitted and sliced

First things first, cook the orzo according to the package directions until it’s nice and al dente. Drain it and set it aside while you work on the shrimp.

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once it’s hot, throw in the shrimp. They’ll only need about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and look oh-so-delicious. Once they’re ready, remove the shrimp from the skillet and just set them aside for now.

In that same skillet, add the other tablespoon of olive oil and toss in the garlic. Sauté it for about a minute until you can smell that delicious aroma. This is where the magic begins!

Now, it’s time to add the lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Give it a good stir, then add the cooked orzo, shrimp, parsley, feta, cherry tomatoes, and kalamata olives. Toss everything together until it’s all well combined and warmed through. Taste it and adjust any seasoning if you like.

Serve it right away, and feel free to garnish with extra parsley and feta cheese if you’re feeling fancy!

How to serve Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp

This dish looks stunning when served in shallow bowls or on colorful plates. I love garnishing with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and an extra crumble of feta. A side of crusty bread is always a good idea because you won’t want to miss any of that tasty goodness.

Pair it with a refreshing salad—maybe my Mediterranean Chickpea Salad works beautifully here!

How to store Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp

If you have leftovers (which might be a stretch), you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge. It will last for about 2 days. Just a heads up, the orzo may soak up some of the moisture, so you might want to add a splash of olive oil or lemon juice when reheating.

Tips to make Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp

Make sure your shrimp are fresh or properly thawed. Overcooking can make them tough, so keep an eye on them!
For an extra layer of flavor, you can add red pepper flakes or your favorite herbs.
You can also swap out the feta for goat cheese if you prefer a tangier flavor.
This dish is perfect for a meal prep! Set aside some in containers for easy lunches throughout the week.

Variation

Feeling adventurous? Try adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers. They not only add color but also boost nutrition. If you’re in the mood for a little spice, add some diced jalapeños while sautéing the garlic. It’s a fun twist!

FAQs

Can I use another pasta instead of orzo?
Absolutely! Any small pasta shapes like farfalle or ditalini would work well. Just keep an eye on the cooking times.

Can I make it ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the orzo and shrimp in advance. Just combine everything right before serving for the best texture.

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw and pat them dry before cooking. It’s convenient and works great!

To wrap it all up, there’s something so comforting about making a meal that feels special yet takes no time at all. Just think of all the smiling faces around your table enjoying this dish. What’s better than that?

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