Greek Shrimp with Orzo and Feta Recipe
If you’ve been searching for a vibrant, flavorful dish that feels like a warm Mediterranean hug, then this Greek Shrimp with Orzo and Feta Recipe is exactly what you need. Bursting with juicy shrimp, tangy feta, and the bright punch of sun-dried tomatoes and olives, this meal delivers on every level—texture, color, and deliciousness. It’s an easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing recipe that brings a taste of Greece straight to your dinner table in just about 30 minutes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the harmony of each ingredient. Every component not only adds its unique flavor but also brings texture and vibrant color to the plate, making this dish as stunning as it is tasty.
- Large raw shrimp: Peeled and deveined shrimp cook quickly and provide tender, juicy protein.
- Orzo pasta: Small, rice-shaped pasta that soaks up flavors and makes the dish hearty.
- Olive oil: Adds richness and helps sauté garlic and spices for deep flavor.
- Cherry tomatoes: Sweet bursts of freshness that contrast perfectly with savory elements.
- Sun-dried tomatoes: Packed with intense umami and a chewy texture to balance the dish.
- Kalamata or black olives: Briny bites that introduce a classic Greek saltiness.
- Feta cheese: Crumbled over the top, it melts slightly and adds a creamy tang.
- Garlic: Essential aromatic that infuses every bite with warmth and depth.
- Italian seasoning: A savory blend of herbs enhancing the Mediterranean vibe.
- Smoked paprika: Adds subtle smokiness and a gorgeous color.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): Gives just a touch of heat for those who love a little spice.
- Lime or lemon juice: Brightens the whole dish with a fresh citrus zing.
- Fresh herbs (basil or parsley): Finishing touch for freshness and a pop of green.
How to Make Greek Shrimp with Orzo and Feta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Orzo
Begin by simmering orzo pasta in chicken broth or water until it’s tender and perfectly cooked, usually about 10 minutes. Keep an eye on it and add more liquid if necessary to keep the orzo from sticking or drying out. The orzo will serve as a comforting, soft base that soaks up all the amazing flavors.
Step 2: Sear the Shrimp
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the garlic, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes if you’re using them, sautéing just for 30 seconds to wake up those spices. Then, add the shrimp and cook until they turn pink and opaque, about 2 to 3 minutes per side. Don’t overcook—juicy shrimp are the goal! Once done, remove the shrimp from the pan and set them aside for the next step.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
In the same skillet, add the cherry tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, and olives. Stir gently to combine and warm everything through, letting the flavors mingle beautifully. Now, add the cooked orzo and returned shrimp to the skillet, mixing everything carefully so the shrimp doesn’t break apart but is evenly dispersed for each bite.
Step 4: Finish and Garnish
Right before serving, drizzle fresh lime or lemon juice over the dish for a bright burst of acidity that cuts through richness. Crumble feta cheese generously on top, letting its creamy tang melt into the warm orzo and shrimp. Finally, sprinkle chopped fresh basil or parsley for a fresh, herbaceous note and a lovely splash of green color.
How to Serve Greek Shrimp with Orzo and Feta Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley not only brightens the flavors but also adds visual appeal. A final squeeze of lemon or lime and a sprinkle of extra feta cheese elevate the dish and invite every forkful to be as delightful as possible. For a little extra kick, you can even add a dusting of smoked paprika or a few more red pepper flakes.
Side Dishes
This Greek Shrimp with Orzo and Feta Recipe pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed in a simple lemon vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables like asparagus or zucchini. For a heartier meal, a side of warm pita bread or crusty baguette helps soak up every luscious bit of the sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this dish in individual shallow bowls to showcase the beautiful colors and textures, or present it family-style on a big platter garnished with extra herbs and lemon wedges. You could even turn it into a salad by serving the warm orzo and shrimp mixture over fresh mixed greens for a light yet substantial lunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Greek Shrimp with Orzo and Feta Recipe keeps nicely in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Make sure to cool the dish completely before storing to preserve freshness and flavor.
Freezing
While shrimp and cooked orzo don’t always freeze with the best texture, you can freeze this dish if necessary. Use a freezer-safe container and consume within 1 month for best taste. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating gently.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a skillet over low to medium heat to avoid drying out the shrimp and pasta. Adding a splash of water or broth while warming helps keep the orzo moist. Avoid using the microwave if possible for more even reheating and to maintain texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw them fully in the refrigerator overnight or under cold running water before cooking to get the best texture and flavor.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Sure thing! You can substitute the shrimp with sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas for a delicious vegetarian version that still pairs wonderfully with the orzo and feta.
What if I don’t have sun-dried tomatoes?
No worries! You can use extra cherry tomatoes or even roasted red peppers to provide that sweet, umami flavor, though sun-dried tomatoes do give a unique depth.
Can I prepare this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, just swap the orzo for a gluten-free pasta alternative or use quinoa to keep the dish gluten-free and still maintain a similar texture and heartiness.
How spicy is this dish with the red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add just a gentle heat that complements the other flavors without overpowering them. You can adjust the amount to suit your spice tolerance or leave them out entirely for a milder dish.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend making this Greek Shrimp with Orzo and Feta Recipe enough—it’s that perfect balance of simplicity and bold, fresh flavors that will quickly turn into a favorite in your recipe rotation. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, it’s easy to whip up and irresistibly good. So grab those ingredients and dive into a Mediterranean feast that feels as good as it tastes!
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Greek Shrimp with Orzo and Feta Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Halal
Description
A vibrant and flavorful Greek-inspired dish featuring succulent shrimp sautéed with aromatic spices, combined with tender orzo pasta, juicy cherry and sun-dried tomatoes, briny olives, and topped with creamy feta cheese and fresh herbs. Perfect for a quick and satisfying Mediterranean meal ready in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Seasonings
- 1 pound large raw shrimp, peeled, deveined, tails removed
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Orzo Pasta
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth or water
Vegetables and Add-ins
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1/3 cup Kalamata or black olives, pitted and sliced
Finishing and Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime or lemon juice
- 1/2 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 pasta and simmer until tender, about 10 minutes. Stir occasionally and add more liquid if needed to prevent sticking. Once cooked, drain any excess liquid 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 if using. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Combine Ingredients: In the same skillet, add the cherry tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, and olives. Stir and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the tomatoes soften slightly and the mixture is warmed through. Return the cooked orzo and shrimp to the skillet and toss together to combine all the flavors.
- Finish and Garnish: Remove the skillet from heat and drizzle fresh lime or lemon juice over the mixture. Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top and garnish with chopped basil or parsley. Serve immediately while warm.
Notes
- Use shrimp that are medium to large in size for best texture and flavor.
- If you prefer a vegetarian version, omit shrimp and increase the amount of tomatoes and olives.
- For an extra kick, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper.
- Fresh herbs like dill or oregano can be substituted for basil or parsley to vary the flavor profile.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 2 days; reheat gently to avoid overcooking shrimp.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Greek
