If you love vibrant Mediterranean flavors and crave a dish that feels both fresh and comforting, you absolutely must try this Greek Shrimp with Orzo and Feta Recipe. It’s a delightful marriage of tender shrimp, nutty orzo pasta, and a punch of briny, creamy feta cheese, all brought together with sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and a medley of fragrant herbs. This dish looks beautiful on the plate and bursts with a balance of textures and tastes that make each bite feel like a mini vacation to Greece.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is key for this Greek Shrimp with Orzo and Feta Recipe. Each one plays a vital role, whether it’s adding zest, texture, or that signature Mediterranean flair.
- Large raw shrimp: Peeled and deveined, with tails removed for easy eating and a meaty, juicy bite.
- Orzo pasta: This little rice-shaped pasta cooks quickly and soaks up all the delicious flavors you’ll add.
- Olive oil: Choose a good quality extra virgin olive oil; it’s the foundation of authentic Mediterranean cooking.
- Cherry tomatoes: Sweet, juicy pops of color that balance the saltiness of feta and olives.
- Sun-dried tomatoes: Concentrated in flavor, they add a rich, savory depth.
- Kalamata or black olives: Their briny tang brings a wonderful contrast to the creamy cheese and mild shrimp.
- Feta cheese: Crumbly and tangy, it melts slightly into the warm orzo, elevating the dish.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic infuses the dish with an irresistible aroma and underlying warmth.
- Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs like oregano and thyme, it brings a fragrant, herby touch.
- Smoked paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness and a touch of color, making the flavors more complex.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): For a gentle kick that wakes up the palate without overwhelming.
- Lime or lemon juice: Bright citrus juice sprinkled at the end to refresh and brighten every mouthful.
- Fresh herbs (basil or parsley): For a final fresh, herbal note that ties everything together beautifully.
How to Make Greek Shrimp with Orzo and Feta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Orzo
Start by simmering the orzo in chicken broth or water until it’s tender but still slightly al dente, which usually takes about 10 minutes. Be ready to add a little more liquid if needed—this prevents sticking and ensures the orzo cooks evenly to soak up all the future flavors.
Step 2: Sear the Shrimp
Heat your olive oil in a large skillet and toss in the minced garlic along with Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. Sauté this aromatic mixture for about 30 seconds to really wake up the spices. Then, add your shrimp and cook them until they turn a lovely pink and become opaque, usually around 2 to 3 minutes per side. Once done, remove the shrimp and set them aside to keep them tender.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
In the same skillet, no need to clean it—those flavors are gold—toss in your cherry tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, and olives. Stir these together to let the tomatoes soften and mingle with the salty, rich olives. Next, add the cooked orzo and the shrimp back into the skillet. Gently stir everything together so each element shares its flavor and warmth.
Step 4: Finish and Garnish
To elevate your Greek Shrimp with Orzo and Feta Recipe, drizzle fresh lime or lemon juice over the top—it’s like an instant burst of sunshine. Crumble generous amounts of feta cheese over the warm dish so it starts to melt slightly, adding creamy pockets of tanginess. Finally, sprinkle chopped basil or parsley for that fresh herbal lift that makes this meal complete.
How to Serve Greek Shrimp with Orzo and Feta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs are a must! Whether you prefer the anise-like brightness of basil or the clean, slightly peppery flavor of parsley, scattering these on top brings vibrant color and aroma right before serving. A final squeeze of lemon or a sprinkle of extra red pepper flakes can also add a little extra zing for those who like it lively.
Side Dishes
This dish stands beautifully on its own, but pairing it with a crisp Greek salad or some warm, crusty bread can turn it into a fuller, heartier meal. Light roasted vegetables or a simple cucumber and yogurt tzatziki can also be refreshing complements that echo the Mediterranean vibe without overpowering the flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, serve this Greek Shrimp with Orzo and Feta Recipe in shallow bowls with a drizzle of olive oil and a few whole shrimp gracefully laid on top. Adding a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or a few lemon zest curls can bring unexpected texture and flair that impresses guests or brightens up a weeknight dinner.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To store leftovers, place the cooled Greek Shrimp with Orzo and Feta Recipe in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. This dish keeps well, and the flavors actually deepen overnight, making for a delightful next-day meal.
Freezing
While shrimp can sometimes lose texture when frozen, if you need to, freeze the orzo and tomato mixture separately without adding the shrimp or feta. Thaw gently in the fridge, then reheat and add freshly cooked shrimp and crumbled feta to keep the dish as fresh and flavorful as possible.
Reheating
When reheating, use a low to medium heat on the stovetop or microwave, stirring occasionally to warm evenly without overcooking the shrimp. Adding a splash of water or broth can help maintain moisture and keep the orzo from drying out. Always add fresh feta just before serving to retain its creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this Greek Shrimp with Orzo and Feta Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking. This helps them sear nicely and avoid excess water in the pan, which can dilute the flavors.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Yes! Swap shrimp for sautéed mushrooms or roasted chickpeas to keep things hearty and delicious. The orzo, feta, and tomato mix still deliver all the Mediterranean goodness.
What kind of orzo should I buy? Whole wheat or regular?
Regular orzo cooks more quickly and has a mild flavor that lets the other ingredients shine. Whole wheat is a great option for added fiber, though it might take a bit longer to cook and has a nuttier taste that slightly changes the profile.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Definitely. Just substitute the standard orzo with a gluten-free pasta shaped like orzo or small rice-shaped pasta to avoid gluten. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
How spicy is this dish with red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add a gentle warmth rather than intense heat. You can adjust or leave them out entirely if you prefer a milder flavor, making this recipe flexible for spice lovers and sensitive palates alike.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about the way Greek flavors come together in this Greek Shrimp with Orzo and Feta Recipe. It’s fresh, bright, and comforting all at once—a real crowd-pleaser you can whip up in about 30 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for friends or savoring a cozy night in, this dish invites you to enjoy a bit of sunshine and flavor from the Mediterranean in every bite. Give it a try; your taste buds will thank you!
Print
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: Halal
Description
A vibrant and flavorful Greek-inspired dish featuring tender shrimp sautéed with aromatic spices, served over creamy orzo pasta, and topped with briny olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and crumbled feta cheese, finished with a fresh citrusy zing and herbs. Perfect for a quick and satisfying Mediterranean meal.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Seasoning
- 1 pound large raw shrimp, peeled, deveined, tails removed
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Pasta and Vegetables
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 1/4 cups chicken broth or water
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1/3 cup Kalamata or black olives, pitted and halved
Finishing Touches
- 1 lime or lemon, juiced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil or parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Cook Orzo: In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth or water to a simmer. Add the orzo pasta and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until orzo is tender. If needed, add a splash more liquid to keep the pasta from drying out. Drain any excess liquid and set aside.
- Sear the Shrimp: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using) and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Combine Ingredients: In the same skillet, add the cherry tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, and olives. Stir and cook for 2-3 minutes until warmed through and tomatoes slightly soften. Return the cooked orzo and shrimp to the skillet and gently toss to combine all the ingredients and heat through.
- Finish and Garnish: Remove skillet from heat. Drizzle fresh lime or lemon juice over the mixture, then sprinkle crumbled feta cheese and chopped basil or parsley on top. Serve immediately for vibrant flavors and a satisfying meal.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, omit shrimp and add sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas.
- You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a lighter taste.
- If sun-dried tomatoes are oily, reduce added olive oil accordingly.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to your desired level of heat or omit for mild flavor.
- Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
