Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp

If you’re looking for a dish that brings sunshine to your table, let me introduce you to my favorite: Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp. This recipe is the perfect blend of tender orzo, succulent shrimp, and zesty lemon—it’s like a little taste of the Mediterranean right in your kitchen! Whether you’re whipping it up on a busy weeknight or serving it at a family gathering, this dish is sure to impress everyone at the table.

What makes this recipe special is its simplicity and fresh flavors. The bright lemon juice and creamy feta cheese create a delightful balance that elevates the entire meal. Plus, it’s so easy to prepare that you’ll want to make it again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 35 minutes from start to finish, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Fresh Flavors: The combination of lemon, herbs, and feta brings a burst of flavor that feels refreshing and light.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love the tender shrimp and flavorful orzo.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: This dish tastes great warm or at room temperature, making it perfect for meal prep or potlucks.
• Customizable: The recipe can easily be adapted with different veggies or proteins based on your preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp, you’ll need some simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. These ingredients come together beautifully to create a satisfying meal.

For the Shrimp

• 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• Zest of 1 lemon

For the Orzo

• 12 oz (340 g) orzo pasta
• 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• Juice of 1 large lemon (about 3 tbsp)
• 1 garlic clove, finely grated
• 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

For the Vegetables

• 1 cup (150 g) cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup (120 g) baby spinach, roughly chopped
• 1/4 cup (10 g) fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup (10 g) fresh dill, chopped

For Topping

• 4 oz (115 g) feta cheese, crumbled
• 2 tbsp capers, rinsed and drained (optional)

Variations

One of the best things about Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal taste preferences.

• Swap the protein: Instead of shrimp, try using chicken breast or sautéed chickpeas for a plant-based option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus for added nutrition and color.
• Go gluten-free: Substitute traditional orzo with gluten-free pasta options available in stores.
• Make it spicy: If you like heat, add more crushed red pepper flakes or some sliced jalapeños for an extra kick.

How to Make Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp

Step 1: Roast the Shrimp

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Toss the shrimp with olive oil, salt, pepper, oregano, smoked paprika, and lemon zest. Spreading them out in a single layer ensures they roast evenly and develop a beautiful caramelized flavor. Roast them for about 8–10 minutes until they are opaque and just cooked through. Setting them aside allows their juices to settle while you prepare the rest of the dish.

Step 2: Cook the Orzo

Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cooking your orzo according to package instructions until al dente gives it that perfect bite. Once done, drain it well before returning it to the pot. This step is crucial because we want all those flavors from the next step to infuse into the pasta while it’s still hot!

Step 3: Add Flavorful Ingredients

While your orzo is still warm, stir in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and optional red pepper flakes. Mixing these together helps coat every piece of pasta in zesty goodness. It’s important not just for flavor but also because warm pasta absorbs these flavors beautifully.

Step 4: Fold in Fresh Veggies

Gently fold in cherry tomatoes, spinach, parsley, and dill. Stirring until the spinach is just wilted keeps everything vibrant and fresh. The warmth from the pasta will soften the tomatoes slightly while keeping their shape—you want them juicy but not mushy!

Step 5: Combine with Feta & Capers

Carefully mix in crumbled feta cheese and capers if you’re using them. The creaminess from the feta adds richness while capers can provide that lovely briny kick!

Step 6: Serve It Up!

Top your flavorful orzo mixture with roasted shrimp right before serving. Enjoy this dish warm or at room temperature—either way works wonderfully! Garnishing with extra herbs and lemon wedges adds an inviting touch that’s as beautiful as it is tasty.

Now you’re all set to enjoy this delightful Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp! Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp

Making Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp is a delightful experience, and with these pro tips, you’ll ensure that every bite bursts with flavor!

• Use fresh shrimp: Fresh shrimp makes all the difference in taste and texture. If possible, buy from a trusted source or your local fish market for the best quality.
• Don’t overcook the shrimp: Keep an eye on the shrimp while roasting; they should be opaque but not rubbery. Overcooking can lead to tough shrimp, so check at the 8-minute mark!
• Customize your herbs: Feel free to mix and match herbs according to your preference! Fresh basil or mint can add a unique twist to the dish while enhancing the Mediterranean flavors.
• Opt for whole grain orzo: For a healthier twist, consider using whole grain orzo. It adds extra fiber and nutrients without sacrificing flavor.
• Make it ahead: This dish can be made ahead of time! Just store the components separately until you’re ready to serve. The flavors will meld beautifully when warmed together.

How to Serve Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp

Serving Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp is just as enjoyable as making it! With some thoughtful presentation and complementary sides, you’ll impress both family and friends.

Garnishes

• Lemon wedges: Adding lemon wedges not only enhances the presentation but also allows guests to add an extra burst of citrus as desired.
• Extra fresh herbs: Sprinkling additional chopped parsley or dill on top before serving brings a pop of color and freshness to the dish.

Side Dishes

• Mediterranean Salad: A crisp salad with cucumbers, bell peppers, red onion, and olives dressed in olive oil and vinegar offers a refreshing contrast to the warm orzo dish.
• Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant drizzled with olive oil and grilled provide a smoky flavor that complements the orzo beautifully.
• Garlic Bread: Warm garlic bread is always a favorite! It’s perfect for soaking up any leftover juices from the shrimp and adds a comforting touch to your meal.
• Roasted Asparagus: Simply roasted asparagus seasoned with lemon zest brings additional brightness to the plate while being a nutritious side.

With these serving ideas and tips in hand, you’re ready to enjoy a vibrant plate of Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp recipe is fantastic for meal prep! It keeps well in the fridge and can be easily reheated, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or lunch at work.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Enjoy them within 3-4 days for the best flavor and freshness.
• If possible, keep the shrimp separate from the orzo until ready to eat for better texture.

Freezing

• This dish can be frozen, but it’s best to freeze the orzo and shrimp separately if possible.
• Place cooled orzo and shrimp in individual freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Label with the date and use within 2-3 months for optimal taste.

Reheating

• To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Gently microwave in short intervals, stirring often, until heated through.
• Alternatively, you can reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to keep it moist.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp that might help you with your cooking journey!

Can I use a different type of pasta instead of orzo?

Absolutely! While this recipe features orzo, you can substitute it with other small pasta shapes like couscous or ditalini. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

How can I make Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp vegetarian?

To make this dish vegetarian-friendly, simply omit the shrimp and replace it with roasted vegetables such as zucchini or bell peppers. The flavors will still shine through!

What can I serve with Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or grilled veggies. You can also serve it alongside a light vinaigrette for extra zing!

Is Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp healthy?

Yes! This recipe is packed with protein from shrimp and nutrients from fresh herbs and vegetables. It’s a balanced meal option that’s both satisfying and nutritious.

How long does it take to prepare Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp?

From start to finish, this delightful dish takes about 35 minutes to prepare. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp as much as I do! The combination of fresh flavors, tender shrimp, and creamy feta makes it a special dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Don’t hesitate to share your experience in the comments below—I would love to hear how it turned out for you!