Greek Shrimp with Orzo, Feta & Tomatoes is a tasty one-pan meal! Juicy shrimp cooks up with soft pasta, crumbs of salty feta, and bright tomatoes for a fun combo of flavors.
Throw this together on a busy night, and your kitchen will smell amazing! I love how it looks fancy but is super easy to make—perfect for impressing friends! 🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are ideal for this dish, but you can use medium-sized shrimp or even prawns. If you’re allergic to shellfish, consider substituting with cubed firm tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
Orzo: This tiny pasta works perfectly in the recipe, but if you can’t find it, any small pasta like couscous, ditalini, or even rice can be great alternatives. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds rich flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, use canola or avocado oil, which have a milder taste.
Feta Cheese: Feta brings a salty tang. If you’re dairy-free, try vegan feta or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Tomatoes: Cherry or grape tomatoes provide sweetness. If they’re not in season, you can use canned diced tomatoes instead—just drain them well before adding.
How Do I Ensure My Shrimp Cook Perfectly?
Getting shrimp just right can make or break this dish. Here’s how to do it smoothly:
- Make sure your shrimp are thawed (if frozen) and patted dry.
- Add the shrimp when the orzo is almost done cooking—this way, they cook quickly and stay tender.
- Aim for bright pink and opaque shrimp, usually about 4-5 minutes; overcooking makes them rubbery.
- Don’t forget to toss in the lemon juice right before serving to enhance flavor!
Greek Shrimp with Orzo, Feta & Tomatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 1/2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 20 minutes to cook, making it a total of about 30 minutes. You’ll be enjoying your Mediterranean meal in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Base:
In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add in the minced garlic and chopped red onion (if using), and sauté until they become fragrant and the onion is translucent, which should take about 2 minutes.
2. Toast the Orzo:
Next, add the orzo pasta to the pan. Stir it frequently for 2-3 minutes until the orzo is lightly toasted and coated with the oil.
3. Cook the Orzo:
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, lower the heat to a simmer. Cover the pan and let it cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
4. Add the Tomatoes and Seasoning:
Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes, dried oregano, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), and season with salt and pepper. Cook uncovered for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the tomatoes begin to soften.
5. Incorporate the Shrimp:
Add the shrimp to the pan, spreading them evenly over the orzo mixture. Cover the pan again and cook for 4-5 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque.
6. Finish with Lemon and Herbs:
Remove the pan from heat and stir in the lemon juice, along with half of the chopped parsley. This adds a refreshing zing to your dish!
7. Serve with Feta:
Finally, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and the remaining parsley over the top before serving. This dish is best enjoyed warm, so dive in right away!
8. Optional Garnish:
Serve your Greek Shrimp with Orzo, Feta & Tomatoes with extra lemon wedges on the side for those who enjoy an extra splash of citrus flavor!
Enjoy a bright, Mediterranean-inspired meal!
FAQ for Greek Shrimp with Orzo, Feta & Tomatoes
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp in This Recipe?
Yes! If you’re using frozen shrimp, just be sure to thaw them completely before cooking. You can do this overnight in the refrigerator or quickly by placing them in a sealed bag and submerging in cold water for about 15-20 minutes. Pat them dry before adding to the dish!
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
If you want to enjoy this dish without shrimp, substitute with diced firm tofu or chickpeas for protein. You can also add more veggies like zucchini or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrients!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the dish on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth if necessary to prevent drying out.
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the orzo and the sautéed veggies ahead of time and store them separately. Reheat them together and then add the shrimp just before serving to ensure they remain tender and juicy!
