If you’re searching for a weeknight dinner that’s bold, satisfying, and guaranteed to impress, Greek Shrimp with Orzo and Feta is a delectable answer. This one-pan wonder brings together juicy shrimp, tender orzo, zesty tomatoes, and the creamy tang of feta cheese for a Mediterranean experience that simply feels joyful. The balance of bright lemon, fragrant herbs, and just a touch of heat makes every bite pop. Whether you’re sharing it with family or friends—or just treating yourself—Greek Shrimp with Orzo and Feta promises pure comfort and sunshine on your plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredient list for Greek Shrimp with Orzo and Feta is blissfully short—every item is there for a reason, and each brings something special to the table. The blend of simple pantry staples and a handful of fresh components creates a dish that’s vibrant, hearty, and so easy to prepare.
- Olive oil: Rich and fruity, this is the perfect base to sauté everything and infuse a touch of Mediterranean flavor.
- Yellow onion: Finely chopped to create a sweet, aromatic background for the sauce.
- Garlic: Minced garlic gives the whole skillet a savory, irresistible aroma.
- Diced tomatoes: Canned tomatoes bring sweetness, acidity, and plenty of juiciness to the sauce.
- Dried oregano: Adds earthy, warm undertones that are classic in Greek dishes.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): For just a little kick, adjusting to your preferred spice level.
- Salt and black pepper: Both are essential for rounding out the flavors; taste as you go.
- Orzo pasta: This rice-shaped pasta cooks right in the pan, absorbing all the savory juices and ensuring a creamy finish.
- Low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth: The broth boosts flavor and keeps the orzo tender without being too salty.
- Large shrimp: Peeled and deveined, shrimp add sweet, sea-fresh protein that cooks in minutes.
- Feta cheese: Crumbled feta melts slightly, leaving salty, creamy pockets in every bite.
- Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of herbaceous parsley brightens up the whole skillet.
- Fresh lemon juice: Squeeze in some lemon right at the end for a sunny, zesty lift.
- Lemon wedges: For serving—let everyone add extra lemon to their taste at the table!
How to Make Greek Shrimp with Orzo and Feta
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
Set a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat and swirl in the olive oil. Once it shimmers, add the finely chopped onion and let it soften for 3 to 4 minutes. Follow up with the garlic, stirring for just 30 seconds until fragrant—don’t let it brown, as you want the garlic to infuse the oil and mingle flavors gently.
Step 2: Build the Tomato Sauce
Pour in your can of diced tomatoes, juices and all. Sprinkle in the dried oregano and those optional red pepper flakes if you’re after a bit of heat. Season with salt and black pepper. Let everything simmer together for about 5 minutes, giving the sauce time to deepen and meld beautifully.
Step 3: Cook Orzo and Simmer
Add the orzo right into the skillet and pour over the hot broth. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. When the orzo is just al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed, you’re ready for the shrimp.
Step 4: Nestle Shrimp and Finish Cooking
Arrange the shrimp in a single layer right on top of the orzo mixture. Cover and let them steam gently for 4 to 5 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re pink, plump, and just opaque—overcooked shrimp can turn rubbery, so keep an eye out!
Step 5: Add Feta, Herbs, and Lemon
Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle the crumbled feta, chopped parsley, and the fresh lemon juice all over. Give everything a gentle stir so the feta softens but doesn’t totally melt—those salty pockets are pure magic. Serve Greek Shrimp with Orzo and Feta warm, with extra lemon wedges on the side for a final burst of brightness.
How to Serve Greek Shrimp with Orzo and Feta
Garnishes
A generous spoonful of more fresh parsley, scattered on top just before serving, makes the whole skillet look inviting and green. Lemon wedges on the side are an absolute must—everyone loves an extra squeeze! A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and maybe some cracked black pepper for finishing touches never hurt, either.
Side Dishes
Greek Shrimp with Orzo and Feta is fantastic as a complete meal, but if you want to round out your table, try serving it with a crisp Greek salad, some warm pita bread, or a platter of marinated olives. Even a simple cucumber-yogurt tzatziki would be a cool, creamy complement to the tender shrimp and tangy feta.
Creative Ways to Present
Try spooning the orzo and shrimp into shallow bowls for a rustic, cozy feel. For a more festive approach, arrange the shrimp right on top and scatter colorful cherry tomato halves or Kalamata olives over everything. Serving this dish family-style in a big skillet in the middle of the table makes any meal feel like a celebration!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Greek Shrimp with Orzo and Feta keeps well for up to 2 days in the refrigerator. Simply transfer the cooled dish to an airtight container. The flavors will deepen a bit overnight, which makes leftovers especially rewarding for next-day lunches.
Freezing
While you can freeze this dish, keep in mind that the texture of shrimp and orzo may change slightly after thawing. Store portions in airtight, freezer-safe containers for up to one month. For best results, freeze without the final feta and parsley topping, and add those freshly after reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the Greek Shrimp with Orzo and Feta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen things up. Stir carefully to prevent the shrimp from becoming tough, and add extra feta and herbs just before serving if desired.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for Greek Shrimp with Orzo and Feta?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking. This helps them cook evenly and soak up all the herby tomato flavor.
What can I use instead of orzo?
You can swap in small pasta shapes like ditalini, couscous, or even cooked quinoa for a gluten-free twist. The texture will be a little different, but the flavors remain delicious and fresh.
How spicy is this dish?
The heat level is very gentle; red pepper flakes are optional and totally adjustable. If you’re sensitive to spice, simply leave them out, or add more if you want a bigger kick.
What’s the best way to make Greek Shrimp with Orzo and Feta dairy-free?
Simply omit the feta cheese or use a plant-based feta alternative. The dish will still be just as hearty and flavorful, thanks to the bright lemon and the juicy shrimp.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! You can make a batch ahead of time and enjoy it over a couple of days. Just keep the garnishes and feta separate until you’re ready to eat for the freshest taste and texture.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve got a craving for something both comforting and vibrant, Greek Shrimp with Orzo and Feta is a dish you really can’t miss. It truly brings together the best flavors of the Mediterranean with minimal fuss. Treat yourself to this cheerful skillet supper—you might just find it becomes your new favorite weeknight hero.
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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
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A delightful Greek-inspired dish that combines succulent shrimp, flavorful orzo pasta, tangy feta cheese, and fresh herbs, all cooked in a savory tomato-based sauce.
Ingredients
Main Dish:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Garnish:
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a skillet, sauté onion until soft, then add garlic.
- Prepare Tomato Base: Add diced tomatoes, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Simmer.
- Cook Orzo: Stir in orzo and broth, cook until al dente.
- Cook Shrimp: Add shrimp to orzo, cook until pink and opaque.
- Finish and Serve: Stir in feta, parsley, and lemon juice. Serve with lemon wedges.
Notes
- You can substitute quinoa or couscous for orzo if desired.
- Add chopped spinach or olives for extra Mediterranean flair.
- To make this dish dairy-free, omit the feta or use a plant-based alternative.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 630mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
