Name: Lemony Shrimp and Feta orzo Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 pound raw shrimp (20 – 30 count, peeled and deveined, fully thawed if frozen); 1 tablespoon olive oil (plus additional as needed); Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper; ⅓ cup finely chopped yellow or sweet onion; 2 to 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1 cup orzo (uncooked); 2 medium Roma tomatoes (diced, about 1 to 1 ¼ cup); 2¼ cups low-sodium chicken broth; Zest of 1 lemon; 1 to 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (to taste); ½ cup crumbled feta cheese; ¼ cup thinly sliced fresh basil

Print Recipe· 4.3 from 6 reviews

There is something utterly irresistible about the bright, tangy flavors packed into this Lemony Shrimp and Feta orzo Recipe. Imagine tender shrimp nestled within tender, perfectly cooked orzo pasta, all infused with fresh lemon zest and juice, then crowned with creamy, salty feta and fragrant basil. It’s a dish that bursts with vibrant colors and fresh Mediterranean-inspired tastes, instantly lifting your spirits and satisfying your appetite. Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight dinner or a lovely dish to wow your friends, this recipe brings together simple ingredients for an unforgettable meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows ingredients arranged neatly on a white marbled surface. In the middle, there is a clear glass bowl filled with pink shrimp. Surrounding it are smaller white bowls holding different ingredients: to the top left, a bowl of light beige orzo, a bowl of bright green basil leaves below it, and a bowl of white chopped onion next to basil. At the top center, there is a bright yellow whole lemon and a small white bowl of golden yellow olive oil. To the top right, a glass measuring cup filled with pale yellow broth is placed above a bowl of chopped red tomatoes. Smaller bowls with white salt and black pepper sit to the right of the tomatoes, and a small white bowl of light beige minced garlic is below the tomatoes. Near the shrimp, a bowl with white crumbled feta cheese adds texture to the spread. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Lemony Shrimp and Feta orzo Recipe comes together beautifully thanks to straightforward, fresh ingredients that each play an essential role. From the plump shrimp to the tangy lemon and creamy feta, every component brings balance in taste, texture, and color.

Raw shrimp (1 pound): Peeled and deveined shrimp add succulent protein and a delicate seafood sweetness.
Olive oil (1 tablespoon, plus extra as needed): Brings richness and helps sauté the ingredients to perfection.
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance every flavor.
Yellow or sweet onion (⅓ cup, finely chopped): Provides a gentle sweetness and depth when softened.
Garlic (2 to 3 cloves, minced): Infuses the dish with a fragrant, savory warmth.
Orzo (1 cup, uncooked): The tiny, rice-shaped pasta adds comforting texture and soaks up all the luscious flavors.
Medium Roma tomatoes (2, diced): Introduce juicy freshness and vibrant color.
Low-sodium chicken broth (2¼ cups): A flavorful cooking liquid that keeps the dish light yet savory.
Lemon zest of 1 lemon: Gives an intense citrus aroma that wakes up the palate.
Fresh lemon juice (1 to 2 tablespoons): Adds bright acidity to brighten and balance the dish perfectly.
Feta cheese (½ cup, crumbled): Creamy, salty, and tangy, feta gives that irresistible Mediterranean twist.
Fresh basil (¼ cup, thinly sliced): Adds an herbal freshness that ties everything together beautifully.

How to Make Lemony Shrimp and Feta orzo Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Sear the Shrimp

Start by placing your fully-thawed shrimp in a colander to drain any excess liquid and pat them dry — this helps achieve a nice sear. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat in a large, deep skillet. Season the shrimp lightly with salt and pepper, then spread them out evenly in the skillet. Cook for just 1 to 2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp and set them aside, covering loosely with foil to keep warm and juicy.

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Reduce the heat to medium. If needed, add 1 to 2 teaspoons more olive oil to the skillet and toss in the finely chopped onion. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion softens and becomes translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until you can smell that delicious aroma – this step releases all that savory goodness that’s a game-changer in this recipe.

Step 3: Toast the Orzo

Next, stir in the orzo and cook for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly. This quick toasting step enhances the pasta’s nutty flavor and helps it hold its shape during cooking, making your dish that much more flavorful and satisfying.

Step 4: Add Tomatoes, Broth, and Lemon Zest

Now it’s time to brighten things up! Add the diced Roma tomatoes, pour in the low-sodium chicken broth, and sprinkle in the zest from one lemon. Turn the heat up just enough to bring everything to a gentle simmer, then reduce to medium-low. Cover the skillet and let it cook for 9 to 11 minutes, stirring occasionally until the orzo is tender and the liquid mostly absorbed. This part is where the flavors meld beautifully.

Step 5: Finish with Lemon Juice and Warm the Shrimp

Remove the skillet from heat and stir in 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice — this citrus burst elevates the whole dish. Gently fold the cooked shrimp back into the pan just to warm through, making sure every spoonful will have that perfect shrimp bite bursting with lemony notes.

Step 6: Add Feta and Basil

Right before serving, fold in the creamy crumbled feta cheese and the vibrant fresh basil slices. This final touch brings a lovely contrast of salty creaminess and herbal brightness that makes the Lemony Shrimp and Feta orzo Recipe truly unforgettable.

How to Serve Lemony Shrimp and Feta orzo Recipe

A round blue pot holds a two-layered dish set on a white marbled surface. The bottom layer is light golden orzo pasta mixed with small pieces of red bell pepper, soaked in a light broth. The top layer has medium-sized cooked shrimp with a light pink and orange color, seasoned with black pepper and slight charring, clustered in the center. A wooden spoon with a warm brown color rests inside the pot, laying across the shrimp and orzo. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of extra crumbled feta or a few whole basil leaves on top adds a charming, fresh finish. You might also consider a quick drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a pinch of cracked black pepper to enhance the dish’s inviting aroma and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette, or some roasted vegetables like asparagus or zucchini. These sides keep the meal balanced and emphasize the fresh, bright Mediterranean flavors of the orzo and shrimp.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your Lemony Shrimp and Feta orzo Recipe in shallow bowls for a rustic, cozy vibe or dress it up on a large platter for sharing at a dinner party. Adding lemon slices onto the side of the serving dish invites guests to add an extra squeeze of brightness. For a fun twist, consider stuffing tomatoes or bell peppers with the orzo mixture for an elegant presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more after resting, but to keep the shrimp tender, it’s best to enjoy it within this timeframe.

Freezing

Freezing is not ideal for this Lemony Shrimp and Feta orzo Recipe because shrimp can become rubbery and feta’s texture may change. If you must freeze, place leftovers in a tightly sealed container, but expect some texture shifts upon thawing.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally. To revive the flavors and consistency, add a splash of chicken broth or a little olive oil if the orzo seems dry. Avoid overheating to keep shrimp tender and fresh tasting.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure the shrimp are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking, which helps them sear nicely without releasing too much water.

Is orzo the only pasta that works here?

Orzo is preferred for its rice-like shape and texture that soaks up flavors well, but small pasta shapes like acini di pepe or ditalini can also work in a pinch.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, simply omit the shrimp and increase the vegetables or add chickpeas for protein. The lemon and feta will still deliver plenty of flavor.

How can I make the dish more tangy?

Feel free to add extra fresh lemon juice or a splash of white wine vinegar toward the end of cooking for an added zing that brightens the whole dish.

Can I prepare parts of the dish in advance?

You can chop the onions, garlic, tomatoes, and basil ahead of time to save prep. Cook the orzo and shrimp fresh for the best texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

There is truly something special about the harmony of flavors in this Lemony Shrimp and Feta orzo Recipe that invites you back for seconds. It’s fresh, comforting, and perfect for sharing with loved ones. So go ahead, give this delicious recipe a try — your taste buds will thank you!

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