Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp

Tender orzo, roasted shrimp, feta, and vibrant herbs combine for a fresh Mediterranean-inspired flavor in this Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp recipe. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, bringing a delightful taste of the Mediterranean to your table. With its bright flavors and colorful ingredients, this meal is sure to impress family and friends alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just 35 minutes from prep to plate, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of lemon, feta, and fresh herbs creates a deliciously vibrant dish.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it warm or at room temperature, making it ideal for any occasion.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with protein from shrimp and vitamins from spinach and tomatoes, it’s a wholesome choice.
• Crowd-Pleaser: The Mediterranean flavors appeal to a wide range of tastes, making it great for entertaining.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking your Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Large pot
• Strainer
• Mixing bowl
• Grater

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for roasting shrimp, ensuring they cook thoroughly without sticking.
• Large pot: Essential for boiling orzo pasta evenly while providing enough space for cooking.
• Strainer: Makes draining the orzo quick and easy while keeping the pasta intact.

Ingredients

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

Ingredients:
– 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
– 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)
– 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)

How to Make Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Toss the shrimp with olive oil, salt, pepper, oregano, smoked paprika, and lemon zest. Spread in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 2: Roast the Shrimp

Roast shrimp for 8–10 minutes until opaque and just cooked through. Set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Orzo

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

Step 4: Mix in Flavorful Ingredients

While orzo is hot, stir in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Mix well to coat.

Step 5: Add Vegetables

Fold in cherry tomatoes, spinach, parsley, and dill. Stir until spinach is just wilted.

Step 6: Combine with Feta

Gently mix in feta cheese and capers if using.

Step 7: Serve

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

How to Serve Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp

Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a casual meal, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

With Fresh Salad

• Toss together greens with olive oil and lemon for a refreshing side.

Over Greens

• Serve the orzo on a bed of arugula or spinach to add extra texture and nutrients.

Garnished with Herbs

• Sprinkle additional fresh herbs like dill or parsley on top for added flavor.

Accompanied by Lemon Wedges

• Offer lemon wedges on the side to enhance the citrusy notes of the dish.

As Part of a Mezze Platter

• Pair it with hummus, olives, and pita for a Mediterranean-inspired feast.

How to Perfect Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp

To ensure your Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp turns out perfectly every time, follow these handy tips.

• Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp not only taste better but also have a firmer texture compared to frozen options.

• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Keep an eye on the shrimp while roasting; they cook quickly and should be just opaque when done.

• Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust salt and pepper according to your preference before serving.

• Cook Orzo Al Dente: Follow package instructions carefully to achieve that perfect bite without mushiness.

• Add Extra Veggies: Feel free to include seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for additional color and nutrition.

Best Side Dishes for Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp

Pairing your Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp with delicious side dishes can make your meal even more enjoyable. Here are some great options:

1. Grilled Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears lightly seasoned and grilled until charred make a lovely complement.

2. Mediterranean Quinoa Salad: A quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and olives adds protein and freshness.

3. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized brings flavor and texture.

4. Garlic Bread: Crisp garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any remaining juices from the orzo.

5. Cucumber Yogurt Dip: A cool dip made with yogurt, cucumber, and herbs balances the flavors of the shrimp dish.

6. Sautéed Green Beans: Quick sautéed green beans tossed in garlic add crunch and brightness to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the dish’s final taste and texture. Here are some tips to ensure your meal turns out perfectly.

• Using Overcooked Shrimp: Overcooking shrimp can make them tough and rubbery. Keep an eye on them while roasting; they should be opaque and just cooked through.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Not seasoning the shrimp and orzo properly can result in bland flavors. Ensure you use enough salt, pepper, and herbs to elevate the dish.
• Skipping Fresh Ingredients: Relying solely on dried herbs and ingredients can dull the flavor profile. Whenever possible, use fresh herbs like parsley and dill for a vibrant taste.
• Not Cooking Orzo Al Dente: Cooking orzo until it’s too soft can lead to a mushy texture. Follow the package instructions carefully for the best results.
• Forgetting to Toss Ingredients: Failing to mix the orzo with lemon juice, olive oil, and garlic well can leave some parts dry. Be thorough when combining ingredients for even flavor distribution.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months; however, textures may change upon reheating.

Reheating Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until warm throughout.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a pan, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to retain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use another type of pasta instead of orzo?

You can substitute orzo with other small pasta shapes like couscous or ditalini. Just adjust cooking times according to package directions.

What if I don’t have feta cheese?

If feta cheese is unavailable, you can try using goat cheese or ricotta for a different yet creamy texture.

How do I customize this Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp recipe?

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables such as zucchini or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor variations.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes, Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp is great for meal prep! Just store it in individual containers for easy grab-and-go lunches or dinners throughout the week.

How spicy is this recipe?

The crushed red pepper flakes are optional, so you can adjust the spice level according to your preference by omitting them entirely if desired.

Final Thoughts

Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp is not only delicious but also versatile. This Mediterranean-inspired dish offers bright flavors that appeal to many palates. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or protein options. We encourage you to try this recipe—it’s perfect for quick weeknight dinners!