Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp

Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of the Mediterranean right to your table. The combination of tender orzo, juicy roasted shrimp, tangy feta, and vibrant herbs makes this recipe perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering. Enjoy the fresh and zesty taste that will impress your family and friends alike!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh Mediterranean Flavors: This dish is bursting with zesty lemon and aromatic herbs, making it a refreshing choice for warm days.
• Quick and Easy: With a total time of just 35 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something tasty without hours in the kitchen.
• Versatile Ingredients: The ingredients are easy to find, allowing for substitutions based on what you have on hand while still maintaining flavor.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein from shrimp and nutrients from spinach and tomatoes, this dish is as nutritious as it is delicious.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for serving at gatherings, this Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather all the necessary tools to make your cooking process smooth.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for roasting shrimp, ensuring they cook uniformly.
• Large pot: Essential for boiling orzo to achieve that perfect al dente texture.
• Colander: Helps in draining the orzo efficiently without losing any pasta.
• Mixing bowl: Great for combining ingredients evenly before serving.

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 your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp

• Toss the shrimp with olive oil, kosher salt, black pepper, dried oregano, smoked paprika, and lemon zest.
• Spread them in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 3: Roast the Shrimp

Roast the shrimp in the oven for about 8–10 minutes until they are opaque and just cooked through. Set aside after roasting.

Step 4: Cook the Orzo

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

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

While the orzo is still hot:
* Stir in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and optional red pepper flakes. Mix well until coated.

Step 6: Add Vegetables

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

Step 7: Finish with Cheese

Gently mix in crumbled feta cheese and optional capers.

Step 8: Serve

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

Enjoy your Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp!

How to Serve Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp

Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp is a delightful dish that brings together the bright flavors of lemon, creamy feta, and tender shrimp. Serving this dish can enhance its Mediterranean charm, making it perfect for any occasion.

Fresh Herb Garnish

• Sprinkle extra chopped parsley or dill on top for added freshness and color.

Lemon Wedges

• Serve with wedges of fresh lemon to allow guests to add an extra zesty kick.

Side Salad

• Pair with a light green salad dressed in olive oil and lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.

Grilled Vegetables

• Complement the dish with grilled zucchini or bell peppers for a smoky flavor that pairs well.

Crusty Bread

• Offer slices of warm crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices from the orzo and shrimp.

Wine Pairing (Non-Alcoholic)

• Consider serving a sparkling fruit juice or herbal iced tea as a refreshing beverage option.

How to Perfect Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp

Creating the perfect Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp is all about technique and balance. Here are some tips to ensure your dish shines:

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh shrimp and herbs will elevate the overall taste of your dish significantly.
• Don’t overcook the shrimp: Keep an eye on the shrimp while roasting; they should be just opaque for the best texture.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, and herbs to match your personal preference.
• Cook orzo al dente: This ensures the orzo has a nice bite and holds up well when mixed with other ingredients.
• Mix in hot ingredients: Adding spinach and feta while the orzo is still warm helps them blend beautifully without losing their flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp

To create a well-rounded meal, consider these side dishes that pair excellently with Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp.

1. Mediterranean Chickpea Salad: A vibrant mix of chickpeas, cucumbers, tomatoes, and olives dressed in lemon vinaigrette adds protein and freshness.
2. Roasted Asparagus: Drizzle asparagus with olive oil and roast until tender; it adds a lovely crunch and flavor contrast.
3. Quinoa Tabbouleh: A refreshing salad made with quinoa, parsley, mint, tomatoes, and lemon juice offers a hearty yet light addition.
4. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft breadsticks brushed with garlic butter provide a comforting touch perfect for dipping into orzo remnants.
5. Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles make for a low-carb side that’s both healthy and satisfying alongside your main dish.
6. Cucumber Yogurt Dip: A cool dip made from Greek yogurt, cucumber, and mint can balance the richness of the feta in the main dish.
7. Stuffed Grape Leaves: These savory bites filled with rice and herbs bring authentic Mediterranean flair to your meal.
8. Simple Green Beans: Sautéed green beans tossed in olive oil are quick to prepare and brighten your plate with their vivid color.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp, there are some common pitfalls to avoid for the best results. Here are a few tips.

• Bold seasoning: Skipping or under-seasoning the shrimp can make your dish bland. Always ensure you season well with salt and pepper for full flavor.
• Overcooking shrimp: Cooking shrimp too long can lead to a rubbery texture. Aim for 8–10 minutes in the oven until they are just opaque.
• Not stirring enough: When mixing in the ingredients with orzo, be gentle but thorough. This ensures even distribution of flavors without breaking the orzo.
• Ignoring ingredient temperatures: Mixing cold vegetables into hot orzo can cool down your dish too quickly. Add them when the orzo is still hot to retain warmth.
• Forgetting garnishes: Skipping fresh herbs or lemon wedges can lessen visual appeal and flavor. Always consider adding a sprinkle of parsley or dill and lemon zest before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before placing it in the fridge.

Freezing Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Label containers with date and contents for easy identification.

Reheating Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 15 minutes, ensuring it’s heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring in between until warm.
• Stovetop: Gently heat over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to keep moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp that may help you.

Can I use other types of pasta instead of orzo?

Yes! While this recipe uses orzo, you can substitute other small pasta shapes like couscous or ditalini.

How can I customize my Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp?

You can add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, or swap out shrimp for chicken or turkey for different flavors.

Is Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, simply use gluten-free pasta options available at most grocery stores.

What other herbs work well in this recipe?

While parsley and dill are great options, basil and cilantro also add freshness and depth to your dish.

Final Thoughts

Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp is a delightful combination of flavors that brings a taste of the Mediterranean right to your table. This versatile recipe allows room for customization, so don’t hesitate to add your favorite vegetables or proteins. Enjoy this easy yet impressive dinner option that’s sure to please everyone!