If you are searching for a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings the sunny Mediterranean right to your dinner table, the Greek Shrimp with Orzo and Feta Recipe is an absolute must-try. This lively recipe combines tender shrimp, creamy feta, and perfectly cooked orzo pasta with the bright tang of lemon and the rich depth of sun-dried tomatoes and olives, creating an unforgettable balance of taste and texture. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or an impressive dish to share with friends, this recipe is a true celebration of Greek flavors that never fails to delight.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering fresh and wholesome ingredients is the secret to making this Greek Shrimp with Orzo and Feta Recipe shine. Each component is selected not only for its authentic flavor but also for how it contributes to the overall harmony of the dish, ensuring every bite is bursting with Mediterranean goodness.
- Large raw shrimp (peeled, deveined, tails removed): Choose fresh or fully thawed shrimp for the best texture and sweetness.
- Orzo pasta: This pearl-shaped pasta cooks quickly and absorbs flavors wonderfully.
- Olive oil: Use extra virgin for a rich, fruity base that enhances every ingredient.
- Cherry tomatoes: They add a juicy burst of natural sweetness and vibrant color.
- Sun-dried tomatoes: Their concentrated flavor brings a delicious umami twist.
- Kalamata or black olives: These bring briny depth and a delightful contrast.
- Feta cheese: Crumbled on top for a creamy, tangy finish that’s utterly Greek.
- Garlic: Fresh cloves provide a fragrant punch to the shrimp and sauce.
- Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that complements the shrimp perfectly.
- Smoked paprika: Adds a subtle smoky warmth to balance the bright flavors.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): For those who love a little hint of heat.
- Lime or lemon juice: This fresh acidity lifts the entire dish beautifully.
- Fresh herbs (basil or parsley): Chopped just before serving to bring a fragrant herbal note.
How to Make Greek Shrimp with Orzo and Feta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Orzo to Perfection
Start by simmering the orzo in chicken broth or water until it reaches a tender texture, usually about 10 minutes. Don’t forget to keep an eye on it, stirring occasionally, and add a splash more liquid if needed to prevent sticking. This little pasta is the foundation of the dish, so getting it just right sets you up for success!
Step 2: Sear the Shrimp with Flavorful Seasonings
While the orzo cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet and toss in the garlic along with Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, and optional red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 30 seconds to release their irresistible aromas before adding the shrimp. Cook the shrimp on each side for 2 to 3 minutes until they’re pink, opaque, and just cooked through. Then, remove them and set aside to keep them tender and juicy.
Step 3: Combine Tomatoes, Olives, and Orzo
In the same skillet that’s been infused with those beautiful spices, add the fresh cherry tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, and olives. Give everything a good stir to warm through, releasing their flavors into the pan. Next, toss in the cooked orzo pasta and return the shrimp to the pan, mixing everything together so the textures and tastes blend beautifully.
Step 4: Finish and Garnish Like a Pro
The final flourish is a drizzle of fresh lime or lemon juice that brightens the dish and balances the savory ingredients perfectly. Then, sprinkle generous crumbles of feta cheese over the top and scatter fresh chopped basil or parsley to add a lovely herbal note that makes the dish truly pop. Serve immediately and prepare to be wowed!
How to Serve Greek Shrimp with Orzo and Feta Recipe
Garnishes
Adding the right garnishes takes this recipe from fantastic to unforgettable. Crumbled feta adds creaminess, fresh herbs bring color and aroma, and a light squeeze of citrus right before serving gives a refreshing zing. If you want to push it further, a light drizzle of high-quality olive oil will add richness and shine.
Side Dishes
This dish is hearty enough to be a standalone meal, but pairing it with a crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette creates a refreshing balance. Alternatively, warm pita bread or crusty artisan bread make perfect companions for soaking up every last drop of flavor-packed sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a lovely dinner party, serve your Greek Shrimp with Orzo and Feta Recipe in individual shallow bowls, garnished elegantly with fresh herbs. Or try layering the mixture over a bed of baby greens for a fusion salad idea. Presentation is all about highlighting those vibrant Mediterranean colors and textures to entice your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Greek Shrimp with Orzo and Feta Recipe should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinners during a busy week. Make sure to keep the feta separate if you want to maintain its texture and crumble it fresh when serving again.
Freezing
While shrimp tend to lose their ideal texture when frozen and reheated, you can freeze the cooked orzo mixture separately without the shrimp. Freeze in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and add freshly cooked shrimp for the best experience.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave at medium power to avoid overcooking the shrimp. Adding a splash of water or broth will help keep the orzo moist. Finish with a fresh sprinkle of herbs and a little extra crumbled feta for a quick meal that tastes just as good the next day.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to fully thaw the shrimp before cooking to ensure even cooking and the best texture. Pat them dry to avoid excess moisture in the pan.
Is orzo gluten-free?
Traditional orzo is made from wheat, so it contains gluten. However, you can find gluten-free orzo made from rice or corn if you need a gluten-free alternative.
Can I substitute the shrimp with another protein?
Yes, chicken breast pieces or firm white fish can work well in this dish if you want a different protein, but cooking times and seasoning might need adjustment to keep flavors balanced.
What can I use instead of sun-dried tomatoes?
If you don’t have sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers can add a sweet and smoky flavor that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
Is this dish spicy?
The red pepper flakes add optional heat, so you can easily leave them out for a milder dish or add more if you prefer a bit of a kick. The overall flavor leans more toward vibrant and savory rather than spicy.
Final Thoughts
I truly encourage you to give this Greek Shrimp with Orzo and Feta Recipe a try—it’s one of those dishes that feels special yet comes together with ease, making it perfect for any occasion. With its bright, fresh, and comforting flavors, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection, delighting family and friends alike with every delicious bite.
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Greek Shrimp with Orzo and Feta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Greek
Description
This Greek Shrimp with Orzo and Feta recipe is a vibrant, savory one-pan dish combining tender shrimp, flavorful orzo pasta, and Mediterranean staples like sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and creamy feta cheese. Enhanced with garlic, Italian seasoning, and a touch of smoked paprika, this dish is finished with fresh lime juice and herbs for a bright, refreshing flavor perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Marinade
- 1 lb large raw shrimp, peeled, deveined, tails removed
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Pasta and Vegetables
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth or water
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1/4 cup Kalamata or black olives, pitted and halved
Finishing Touches
- Juice of 1 lime or lemon
- 1/3 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil or parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Cook Orzo: In a medium saucepan, bring chicken broth or water to a boil. Add the orzo and simmer until tender, about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add more liquid as needed to prevent sticking. Once cooked, drain if necessary and set aside.
- Sear the Shrimp: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 30 seconds to release the aromas. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Combine Ingredients: In the same skillet, add cherry tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, and Kalamata olives. Stir frequently to warm and soften the tomatoes, about 3-4 minutes. Return the cooked orzo and shrimp to the skillet and gently toss all ingredients together to combine and heat through.
- Finish and Garnish: Remove the skillet from heat. Drizzle the dish with fresh lime or lemon juice, crumble feta cheese over the top, and sprinkle with chopped fresh basil or parsley. Serve immediately while warm.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, omit the shrimp and add sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas.
- Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the salt level.
- If sun-dried tomatoes are oil-packed, drain them well for best texture.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to taste for preferred spiciness.
- Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days and can be gently reheated.
