Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp

Tender orzo, roasted shrimp, feta, and vibrant herbs combine for fresh Mediterranean-inspired flavor in this Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp dish. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a delightful meal for entertaining guests. Its bright flavors and colorful presentation make it a standout option for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious meal on the table in about 35 minutes.
• Fresh Flavors: The combination of lemon, herbs, and feta creates a refreshing taste that transports you to the Mediterranean.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap in your favorite vegetables or proteins to suit your preference.
• Great for Meal Prep: This dish stores well in the fridge, making it an excellent choice for lunches throughout the week.
• Healthy and Satisfying: Packed with shrimp and veggies, this recipe offers a nutritious option that fills you up without weighing you down.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Large pot
• Colander
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: A sturdy baking sheet provides even heat distribution when roasting shrimp for optimal texture.
• Large pot: Essential for boiling orzo pasta; its size allows enough room for even cooking.
• Mixing bowl: A versatile tool for combining ingredients like olive oil, lemon juice, and spices before adding them to your dish.

Ingredients

Tender orzo, roasted shrimp, feta, and vibrant herbs combine for fresh Mediterranean-inspired flavor.

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 and Herbs

• 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)

How to Make Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp

Toss the shrimp with olive oil, kosher salt, black pepper, dried oregano, smoked paprika, and lemon zest. Spread the shrimp in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 3: Roast the Shrimp

Roast the shrimp for 8–10 minutes until they are opaque and just cooked through. Set aside once done.

Step 4: Cook the Orzo

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the orzo and return it to the pot.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

While the orzo is hot, stir in extra-virgin olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and optional red pepper flakes. Mix well to coat all pasta evenly.

Step 6: Add Vegetables

Fold in cherry tomatoes, spinach, parsley, and dill into the orzo mixture. Stir until the spinach is just wilted.

Step 7: Finish with Feta

Gently mix in crumbled feta cheese and capers if using.

Step 8: Serve

Top your orzo with roasted shrimp. Serve warm or at room temperature garnished with extra herbs and lemon wedges if desired.

This recipe makes four servings perfect for family dinners or gatherings! Enjoy your delightful Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp!

How to Serve Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp

Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance its Mediterranean charm. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a family meal, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

On a Bed of Greens

• Use fresh arugula or mixed greens as a base for the orzo and shrimp. The peppery greens complement the dish perfectly.

With Lemon Wedges

• Serve with extra lemon wedges on the side. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice adds brightness and enhances the flavors.

Garnished with Extra Herbs

• Top your orzo and shrimp with additional chopped parsley or dill before serving. This adds freshness and visual appeal.

Paired with Crusty Bread

• Offer slices of crusty bread alongside the dish. It’s perfect for scooping up the orzo and shrimp, making each bite satisfying.

As Part of a Mediterranean Platter

• Include Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp in a larger spread featuring olives, hummus, and roasted vegetables. This creates a vibrant Mediterranean feast.

How to Perfect Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp

To achieve the best results with your Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp, follow these simple tips that will enhance both flavor and presentation.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh herbs, ripe tomatoes, and high-quality feta cheese. Freshness makes a noticeable difference in taste.
• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Keep an eye on the shrimp while roasting. They should be opaque and just cooked through to maintain tenderness.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste the orzo mixture before serving. You can always add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to suit your preference.
• Mix Gently: When combining ingredients, fold them gently to avoid breaking the feta cheese into small crumbles.
• Serve Warm: For the best flavor experience, serve this dish warm rather than cold. The heat brings out all the vibrant flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp

Complement your Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp with these delicious side dishes that enhance its Mediterranean essence.

1. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant drizzled with olive oil make a colorful addition.
2. Tzatziki Sauce: This creamy yogurt-based sauce with cucumber and garlic pairs well with shrimp for a refreshing contrast.
3. Mediterranean Quinoa Salad: A salad loaded with cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta offers a hearty yet light side.
4. Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus spears roasted until tender provide an elegant touch to your meal.
5. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover juices from the orzo and shrimp.
6. Cucumber Tomato Salad: A simple salad made with diced cucumbers and tomatoes tossed in olive oil and lemon juice adds freshness.
7. Chickpea Salad: Protein-packed chickpeas mixed with parsley, onion, and lemon make for a tasty side that complements this dish well.
8. Sautéed Green Beans: Quickly sautéed green beans with garlic offer a crunchy texture that balances the softness of the orzo.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp to the next level.

• Overcooking shrimp: Cook shrimp until just opaque. Overcooking makes them tough. Keep a close eye while roasting.
• Skipping ingredient prep: Preparing all ingredients beforehand ensures a smooth cooking process. Missteps in timing can lead to unevenly cooked dishes.
• Not salting the pasta water: Salting enhances flavor. If you skip this step, your orzo may taste bland, so don’t forget to season the water before boiling.
• Using cold ingredients: Cold ingredients can affect cooking times and textures. Bring items like feta and spinach to room temperature for better incorporation.
• Rushing the mixing process: Take time to fold in ingredients gently. This preserves their integrity and maintains a beautiful presentation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp can last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp

• Place in a freezer-safe container with tight seals.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring between each, until warmed evenly.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if necessary to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp.

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes! You can substitute orzo with any small pasta shape, such as couscous or ditalini, but cooking times may vary.

How do I make this dish vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version of Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp, simply omit the shrimp and add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.

What can I serve with Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp?

This dish pairs well with a fresh salad or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the components ahead of time and assemble them just before serving for optimal freshness.

Final Thoughts

Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp is a delightful dish that captures Mediterranean flavors beautifully. Its versatility allows you to customize it based on your preferences—swap out vegetables or change the protein as desired. Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!