Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp

If you’re looking for a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp is just the ticket! This delightful recipe combines tender orzo with succulent roasted shrimp, creamy feta, and a burst of fresh herbs. It’s bright, flavorful, and oh-so-easy to whip up—perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress family and friends at your next gathering.

One of the things I love most about this recipe is how it brings together simple ingredients into something truly special. The Mediterranean flavors dance on your palate, making each bite a little celebration. Trust me; once you try it, Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp will become one of your go-to favorites!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have this dish ready in no time!
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the delicious combination of shrimp, pasta, and cheese.
• Versatile: Perfect as a main dish or served alongside your favorite salad or bread.
• Make-ahead friendly: You can prepare it earlier in the day and enjoy it warm or at room temperature.
• Flavor-packed: Fresh herbs and zesty lemon create a bright taste that will leave everyone wanting more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our wholesome ingredients for this delightful dish! You’ll find everything is simple and fresh—just what you need for a lovely meal.

For the Roasted 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 & Garnish

• 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! You can easily tweak it to match your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken breast or scallops instead of shrimp for a different flavor profile.
• Add seasonal veggies: Toss in zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus to add even more color and nutrition.
• Make it vegan: Substitute the shrimp with chickpeas and use dairy-free feta for a plant-based version.
• Herb it up: Experiment with other herbs like basil or mint for a twist on flavor.

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. In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, salt, pepper, oregano, smoked paprika, and lemon zest. Spreading them in a single layer helps them roast evenly. Bake for about 8–10 minutes until they are opaque and just cooked through. This step brings out their natural sweetness while keeping them juicy!

Step 2: Cook the Orzo

While the shrimp is roasting, bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook the orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Draining it well ensures there’s no excess water that might dilute our flavors later. Return it to the pot while it’s still hot.

Step 3: Mix in Flavorful Ingredients

While the orzo is hot, stir in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and optional red pepper flakes. Mixing these ingredients while the pasta is warm allows them to coat every morsel beautifully.

Step 4: Add Fresh Veggies

Fold in cherry tomatoes, spinach, parsley, and dill gently into the orzo mixture. This step adds freshness! Stir until the spinach wilts slightly but retains its vibrant color.

Step 5: Finish with Feta and Capers

Gently mix in crumbled feta cheese and capers if you’re using them. The feta melts slightly into the warm pasta creating creamy pockets of flavor throughout.

Step 6: Serve It Up!

Top your flavorful orzo with those perfectly roasted shrimp. Serve warm or at room temperature. Don’t forget to garnish with extra herbs or lemon wedges if desired! Enjoy this scrumptious Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp—you’ll be coming back for seconds!

Pro Tips for Making Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp

Cooking should be a delightful experience, and these tips will help you create the best Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp possible!

• Use fresh shrimp: Fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp will enhance the flavor and texture of your dish, ensuring a delicious meal that everyone will love.
• Don’t skip the lemon zest: This ingredient adds a bright, citrusy punch that elevates the overall flavor profile. It’s a simple step that makes a big difference!
• Cook orzo al dente: Overcooking orzo can lead to mushiness. Aim for an al dente texture; it will continue to absorb flavors from the sauce while maintaining a pleasant bite.
• Customize your herbs: Feel free to mix and match herbs based on what you have on hand or prefer. Basil, mint, or even arugula can add unique and refreshing flavors to this dish.
• Make it ahead: This recipe can be easily made in advance and stored in the fridge. The flavors meld beautifully over time, making it perfect for meal prep or entertaining.

How to Serve Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp

Presenting your Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp beautifully can elevate the dining experience. Here are some serving suggestions to impress your family and friends.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Sprinkle additional chopped parsley or dill on top just before serving for a burst of color and freshness.
• Lemon wedges: Offering lemon wedges alongside allows guests to add extra acidity according to their preference, enhancing the dish’s brightness.

Side Dishes

• Mediterranean Salad: A simple salad with cucumbers, bell peppers, olives, and red onion dressed in olive oil and lemon complements the flavors of this dish beautifully.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus provide a colorful and nutritious side that’s easy to prepare alongside your main dish.
• Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread makes for a delightful pairing. The buttered garlic flavor is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce from the orzo.
• Couscous with Herbs: Fluffy couscous tossed with herbs and lemon juice is another light side that harmonizes with the Mediterranean theme of this meal.

With these tips on presentation and pairing, you’ll create an unforgettable dining experience centered around your delicious Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp! Enjoy every flavorful bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp is not only a delightful dish but also a perfect candidate for meal prep! You can whip it up ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week, making your life just a little easier. Here’s how to store and reheat it:

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover orzo shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Enjoy within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
• Keep the shrimp separate from the orzo if you prefer to maintain their texture.

Freezing

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 2 months; label with the date for your reference.

Reheating

• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
• Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to help revive moisture.
• For microwave reheating, cover and heat on medium power, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp recipe.

Can I use smaller shrimp for Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp?

Yes, you can use smaller shrimp! Just be mindful of cooking time as they may cook faster than larger ones.

What can I substitute for feta cheese in Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp?

If you’re looking for alternatives to feta cheese, consider using crumbled goat cheese or even a dairy-free cheese option. Both will add a creamy texture and tangy flavor!

How do I make Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp more spicy?

To add more heat, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or include diced fresh chili peppers when preparing the dish.

Can I add other vegetables to my Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus for added flavor and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp! It’s special because it’s so adaptable and bursting with fresh flavors that remind us of sunny Mediterranean days. Whether you’re serving it for dinner or meal prepping for the week ahead, this dish is sure to please. Enjoy every bite and don’t hesitate to share your creations with friends and family!