Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp

If you’re looking for a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then you need to try this Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp! It’s one of my all-time favorites and has become a staple in our home. The combination of tender orzo, juicy shrimp, and tangy feta creates a delightful medley of flavors that is both refreshing and satisfying. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering with friends, this recipe never fails to impress.

What I love most about this dish is how simple it is to prepare. You can whip it up in about 35 minutes, making it perfect for any occasion. Plus, the vibrant colors and fresh ingredients make it as beautiful as it is delicious!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can enjoy a fantastic meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Family-Friendly: This dish is sure to please everyone at the table. The flavors are mild yet tasty, making it perfect for kids!
• Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the orzo and shrimp ahead of time and combine them when you’re ready to eat. It’s great for meal prepping!
• Fresh Ingredients: Packed with wholesome ingredients like spinach and tomatoes, this recipe offers a burst of nutrients and flavor.
• Versatile Dish: Whether served warm or at room temperature, this Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp fits any setting.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp recipe, we’ll use some simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you need:

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 Mix-Ins

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

Variations

This Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations to keep things exciting:

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken or tofu instead of shrimp for a different twist.
• Add more veggies: Toss in bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus for extra nutrition and color.
• Change the cheese: If feta isn’t your thing, crumbled goat cheese or even a dairy-free alternative works well too!
• Spice it up: Add more crushed red pepper flakes or even some chili powder for an extra kick.

How to Make Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, salt, pepper, oregano, smoked paprika, and lemon zest. Spreading them out in a single layer helps them roast evenly and allows those flavors to really meld together.

Step 2: Roast the Shrimp

Roast the shrimp for about 8–10 minutes until they are opaque and just cooked through. Keep an eye on them; overcooking can make them tough! Set aside while you cook the orzo.

Step 3: Cook the Orzo

Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook your orzo according to package instructions until al dente—this usually takes around 8-10 minutes. Drain it and return it to the pot right away so it stays warm.

Step 4: Mix in Flavorful Ingredients

While the orzo is still hot, stir in olive oil, lemon juice, grated garlic, and red pepper flakes if you like some spice. Mixing these flavors while the pasta is hot helps absorb all that deliciousness!

Step 5: Add Fresh Ingredients

Fold in cherry tomatoes, spinach, parsley, and dill gently until the spinach wilts slightly—a lovely way to incorporate fresh greens into your meal!

Step 6: Combine with Cheese

Carefully mix in crumbled feta cheese and capers if you’re using them. These add delightful briny notes that elevate your dish even more!

Step 7: Serve It Up

Top your flavorful orzo with those perfectly roasted shrimp. Serve warm or at room temperature with extra herbs and lemon wedges on the side for an inviting presentation.

Now you have everything you need to create a delicious Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp

Creating the perfect Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp is easier than you might think, and these tips will help you elevate your dish to restaurant-quality!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs, ripe tomatoes, and high-quality feta will enhance the flavor of your dish significantly. Fresh ingredients bring brightness and vibrancy that dried or subpar options simply can’t match.

• Don’t overcook the shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly; just 8-10 minutes at a high temperature will do the trick. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery, so keep an eye on them for that perfect tender texture.

• Customize your herbs: Feel free to swap in your favorite herbs! Basil or mint could add a delightful twist. Customizing the herbs allows you to tailor the dish to your taste preferences and seasonal availability.

• Add a splash of olive oil before serving: A drizzle of high-quality extra-virgin olive oil right before serving adds richness and depth to the flavors. It also gives the dish a beautiful glossy finish!

• Make it ahead of time: This dish can be prepared in advance and served at room temperature. It’s perfect for meal prep or bringing to gatherings, as the flavors develop even more as it sits.

How to Serve Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp

Serving this vibrant dish beautifully can make it even more enjoyable! Here are some ideas on how to present your Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp.

Garnishes

• Fresh lemon wedges: Squeezing a lemon wedge over each serving brightens up the flavors and provides an extra citrus punch.
• Extra herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or dill on top not only adds color but also enhances that fresh Mediterranean vibe.

Side Dishes

• Mediterranean Salad: A mix of cucumbers, bell peppers, red onions, and olives tossed in olive oil and lemon juice complements the orzo perfectly with its crispness.
• Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus can be lightly grilled and drizzled with balsamic glaze for a smoky addition.
• Hummus with Pita Chips: Creamy hummus paired with crunchy pita chips makes for a fantastic appetizer that invites everyone to dig into this Mediterranean feast.
• Roasted Asparagus: Simply seasoned roasted asparagus adds a delightful crunch and pairs beautifully with the shrimp while keeping things light.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp will not only taste incredible but will also look stunning on any table. Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp recipe is fantastic for meal prep! It keeps well in the fridge, making it perfect for those busy weeks when you want something delicious ready to go.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Keep shrimp and orzo separate if possible to maintain texture.

Freezing

• Let the dish cool completely before freezing.
• Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. Note that texture may change slightly upon thawing.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking.
• Microwave in short intervals, stirring between, until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful dish:

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

Absolutely! While orzo gives a lovely texture, you can substitute it with any small pasta shape like farro or ditalini. Just adjust the cooking time as necessary.

What can I substitute for feta cheese in Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp?

If you’re looking for alternatives, try using crumbled goat cheese or a dairy-free feta option. These will still provide that creamy tanginess.

How long does Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this dish can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Can I make Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp without shrimp?

Yes! You can easily swap shrimp for another protein like chicken breast or chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Just keep an eye on cooking times!

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to whip up this lovely Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp! It’s not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors that brings a taste of the Mediterranean right to your table. Enjoy crafting this dish and sharing it with loved ones—there’s nothing quite like good food and great company. Happy cooking!