Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp

Tender orzo, roasted shrimp, feta, and vibrant herbs come together in this Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp recipe, creating a delightful Mediterranean-inspired dish. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe is both easy to prepare and bursting with fresh flavors. With its combination of succulent shrimp and zesty lemon, this meal will quickly become a favorite in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: This Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp can be on your table in just 35 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavor explosion: The combination of lemon zest, feta cheese, and fresh herbs creates a bright and refreshing taste that elevates the dish.
• Versatile serving options: Enjoy it warm or at room temperature, making it suitable for any occasion—from family dinners to potlucks.
• Nutritious ingredients: Packed with shrimp, spinach, and tomatoes, this dish offers a healthy balance of protein and veggies.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap out vegetables or adjust seasonings to suit your personal taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking your Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for roasting the shrimp, ensuring they cook uniformly.
• Large pot: Essential for boiling the orzo pasta; the size allows enough space for proper cooking.
• Colander: Helps drain the orzo efficiently after cooking.
• Mixing bowl: Perfect for combining all the flavorful ingredients before serving.

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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 the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Toss the shrimp with olive oil, salt, pepper, oregano, smoked paprika, and lemon zest. Spread in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 2: Roast the Shrimp

Roast shrimp for 8–10 minutes until opaque and just cooked through. Set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Orzo

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

Step 4: Mix Ingredients

While orzo is hot, stir in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Mix well to coat.

Step 5: Add Veggies

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

Step 6: Incorporate Cheese

Gently mix in feta cheese and capers if using.

Step 7: Serve

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

How to Serve Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp

Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp is a delightful dish that brings vibrant Mediterranean flavors to your table. Here are some creative ways to serve this meal for an unforgettable dining experience.

On a Bed of Greens

• Fresh arugula or mixed greens can add a peppery crunch to the dish, enhancing its overall freshness.

With Extra Lemon Wedges

• Serving additional lemon wedges allows guests to customize the tanginess of their meal, bringing out the bright flavors even more.

Accompanied by Herb Oil

• Drizzling herb-infused olive oil on top can elevate the dish with extra richness and aroma.

With Crusty Bread

• A side of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover juices, adding a satisfying texture.

Topped with Extra Feta

• For feta lovers, sprinkle some additional crumbled feta on top just before serving for an indulgent twist.

How to Perfect Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp

To truly master this recipe and enhance its flavors, consider these helpful tips:

• Use fresh herbs: Fresh parsley and dill bring a vibrant flavor that dried herbs simply can’t match.
• Cook shrimp perfectly: Avoid overcooking the shrimp; they should be opaque and tender after roasting.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste as you go; feel free to adjust salt, pepper, or lemon juice according to your preferences.
• Serve immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh and warm; it maintains its texture and flavor when served right away.
• Experiment with veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for added color and nutrition.

Best Side Dishes for Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp

Pairing side dishes with Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears roasted with garlic add a delicious crunch and complement the dish beautifully.
2. Mediterranean Chickpea Salad: This refreshing salad with chickpeas, cucumber, and olives provides protein and balances the flavors.
3. Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Colorful skewers of bell peppers, zucchini, and red onion bring smokiness that harmonizes with the shrimp.
4. Quinoa Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette: Light quinoa tossed in lemon vinaigrette offers a nutritious side that mirrors the main dish’s citrus notes.
5. Cucumber Yogurt Dip: Cool and creamy, this dip pairs wonderfully with warm orzo, offering a refreshing contrast.
6. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes provide a natural sweetness that balances the savory elements of the shrimp dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Overcooking the shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly and can become rubbery if overcooked. Aim for 8-10 minutes at 425°F (220°C) until just opaque.
• Not seasoning enough: Seasoning is key to enhancing flavors. Ensure you properly season both the shrimp and orzo with salt, pepper, and herbs.
• Using cold ingredients: Cold ingredients can affect cooking times and flavors. Let ingredients like feta cheese come to room temperature before mixing.
• Ignoring fresh herbs: Fresh herbs add brightness to your dish. Don’t skip the parsley and dill; they elevate the flavor profile significantly.
• Skipping the lemon zest: The zest contributes essential oils that enhance the lemon flavor. Always include it along with the juice for a balanced taste.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp in an airtight container.
• It lasts up to 3 days in the fridge without losing its flavor.

Freezing Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp

• Place cooled leftovers in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• You can freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake covered for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish and heat in 1-minute intervals until warmed completely.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth until warmed through, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp that might help you as you prepare this dish:

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute orzo with other pasta shapes such as farro or small shells, adjusting cooking times as needed.

What can I use instead of feta cheese?

For a dairy-free option, try using crumbled tofu seasoned with lemon juice or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

How can I customize Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp?

You can add vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color. Feel free to experiment with your favorite herbs too!

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free orzo pasta or any gluten-free pasta alternative that suits your taste.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the components separately ahead of time and combine them just before serving for freshness.

Final Thoughts

Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp is not only delicious but also versatile! This Mediterranean-inspired dish is perfect for dinner parties or quick weeknight meals. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the herbs used. Give it a try; your taste buds will thank you!