Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then you’ll love this Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp recipe. It’s a vibrant dish that brings together tender orzo pasta, roasted shrimp, creamy feta cheese, and fresh herbs. The burst of flavors is simply irresistible! Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this dish comes together effortlessly and is sure to impress.

What makes this recipe even more special is how adaptable it can be. It’s perfect for both casual dinners at home and festive occasions with loved ones. Plus, the bright lemony flavor paired with the savory feta creates a delightful Mediterranean experience right in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: This dish takes just 35 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for those busy nights when you still want something homemade.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the combination of shrimp, pasta, and cheese—everyone will be asking for seconds!
• Fresh ingredients: With colorful veggies and aromatic herbs, this recipe celebrates wholesome ingredients that are good for you.
• Make-ahead option: You can prep the orzo and shrimp in advance, making it a great choice for meal prep or entertaining guests.
• Deliciously satisfying: Each bite is packed with flavor, leaving you feeling satisfied without being heavy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is part of the joy in cooking. For this Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp dish, you won’t need anything fancy—just some fresh produce and pantry staples to create a delicious dinner the whole family will love!

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 Veggies and Topping

• 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)

Variations

This Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ways to switch things up:

• Swap the protein: If shrimp isn’t your favorite, try using chicken breast or chickpeas for a hearty vegetarian option.
• Add more veggies: Feel free to toss in other veggies like zucchini or bell peppers to pack in even more nutrition.
• Change up the cheese: Instead of feta, crumbled goat cheese or even ricotta can add a lovely creaminess to the dish.
• Make it spicy: If you love heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or more crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick.

How to Make Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp

Step 1: Roast the Shrimp

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Toss the shrimp in olive oil along with salt, pepper, oregano, smoked paprika, and lemon zest. Spreading them out in a single layer ensures they roast evenly. This step brings out their natural sweetness while infusing them with all those lovely flavors!

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

Roast the shrimp for about 8–10 minutes until they turn opaque and are cooked through. It’s important not to overcook them; they should be tender and juicy. Once they’re done, set them aside while you prepare the orzo.

Step 3: Prepare the Orzo

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your orzo according to package instructions until it reaches al dente. Draining it well is key so that it doesn’t become mushy later on. Return the hot orzo back into its pot.

Step 4: Mix in Flavors

While the orzo is still warm, stir in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and optional red pepper flakes. Mixing these ingredients while hot helps them meld beautifully into each bite.

Step 5: Add Fresh Veggies

Fold in cherry tomatoes, spinach, parsley, and dill gently so that everything combines without breaking apart too much. The warmth of the orzo wilts the spinach just enough while keeping everything vibrant.

Step 6: Finish with Cheese

Gently mix in crumbled feta cheese and capers if you’re using them. These ingredients add an extra layer of flavor that truly elevates this dish!

Step 7: Serve

Top your flavorful mixture with those perfectly roasted shrimp! Serve warm or at room temperature with extra herbs for garnish and lemon wedges on the side if desired. Enjoy every bite of your delightful Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp!

Pro Tips for Making Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp

Making Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp is a breeze, and with these handy tips, you’ll elevate your dish to perfection!

• Choose the freshest shrimp: Fresh shrimp not only tastes better but also cooks more evenly. If possible, buy shrimp that were frozen shortly after being caught for the best flavor.

• Don’t overcook the shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly and can become tough if overcooked. Keep an eye on them while roasting; they should be opaque and cooked through in about 8–10 minutes.

• Use high-quality feta: A good quality feta cheese adds a creamy texture and rich flavor that enhances the dish. Look for feta that comes in brine for the best taste.

• Add seasonal veggies: Feel free to swap out the cherry tomatoes and spinach for whatever seasonal vegetables you have on hand. Zucchini or bell peppers would work beautifully!

• Make it ahead: This dish can be prepared a few hours in advance. Just keep the shrimp and orzo separate until ready to serve to maintain freshness!

How to Serve Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp

Presenting Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp beautifully can make your meal feel even more special. Here are some ideas to help you serve it up in style!

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh herbs: A sprinkle of extra parsley or dill right before serving brightens up the dish and adds a pop of color.
• Lemon wedges: Serve with lemon wedges on the side so guests can add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before enjoying, enhancing that zesty flavor.
• Cracked black pepper: A dash of freshly cracked black pepper adds an extra layer of flavor and makes for an attractive presentation.

Side Dishes

• Mediterranean Salad: A refreshing salad made with cucumbers, olives, red onion, and a light vinaigrette complements the flavors of the orzo beautifully.
• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover juices from the shrimp and adds satisfying crunch to your meal.
• Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned roasted asparagus offers a tender bite that pairs well with the creaminess of feta without overpowering it.
• Couscous with Herbs: Fluffy couscous tossed with fresh herbs can add another layer of texture and flavor, making your meal even more delightful.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp will be a hit whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp recipe is perfect for meal prep! It stores beautifully, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or lunches.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Portion out the orzo and shrimp into freezer-safe containers.
• Label the containers with the date and contents.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a microwave-safe dish, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out.
• Heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delicious dish!

Can I use another type of pasta instead of orzo in Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp?

Absolutely! You can substitute any small pasta shape like couscous, quinoa, or even small shells. Just adjust cooking times as necessary.

How do I add more flavor to Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp?

Consider marinating the shrimp in lemon juice and herbs longer before roasting. You can also try adding other spices like cumin or coriander for a different twist.

Is Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This recipe is excellent for meal prep as it stores well in the fridge and can be easily reheated.

Final Thoughts

I hope you give this Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp recipe a try! With its fresh Mediterranean flavors and vibrant ingredients, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home. Enjoy making this dish, and don’t hesitate to share your experience—I’d love to hear how it turns out for you!