Name: Delicious Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp Recipe to Enjoy
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 cup orzo pasta; 1 pound large shrimp; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic; 1 lemon; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes; Salt and pepper; 1/2 cup feta cheese; 1/4 cup fresh parsley; 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes; 1 tablespoon capers

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Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp is a dish that truly embodies freshness and flavor. This quick and vibrant recipe combines succulent shrimp with tender orzo pasta, all brought together by the zesty brightness of lemon and the creamy tang of feta cheese. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Let’s dive into how to create this delightful meal that captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine.

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp

This Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp dish is not only delicious but also comes with a multitude of benefits that make it a must-try. First, it’s a quick lemon feta pasta with shrimp recipe that you can whip up in just 25 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights. The combination of flavors is refreshing, thanks to the lemon zest and feta, which enhances the shrimp orzo with lemon and feta flavor. It’s also versatile, allowing you to adapt it as a creamy lemon feta orzo with shrimp or a more traditional shrimp lemon feta orzo recipe. Plus, it’s gluten-free and packed with protein from the shrimp, ensuring a healthy meal. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or a hearty dinner, this dish fits the bill perfectly.

Ingredients for Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp

Gather these items:

1 cup orzo pasta
1 pound large shrimp
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic
1 lemon
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Salt and pepper
1/2 cup feta cheese
1/4 cup fresh parsley
1/4 cup cherry tomatoes
1 tablespoon capers

How to Make Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil.
Step 2: Add 1 cup of orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Once cooked, drain the orzo and set aside, reserving a little pasta water for later.
Step 4: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
Step 5: Sauté 3 cloves of minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 6: Add 1 pound of shrimp to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 3-4 minutes or until the shrimp are pink and opaque.
Step 7: Stir the cooked orzo into the skillet with the shrimp.
Step 8: Add 1/2 cup of crumbled feta cheese, 1/4 cup of chopped parsley, 1/4 cup of halved cherry tomatoes, and 1 tablespoon of capers. Drizzle with the juice of 1 lemon and add the lemon zest. Toss gently to combine all ingredients.
Step 9: If the mixture seems dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to help create a creamy consistency.
Step 10: Serve the Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp warm, garnished with additional parsley and lemon wedges if desired. Enjoy!

Pro Tips for the Best Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp

Keep these in mind:

Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor.
Adjust the red pepper flakes to your spice preference.
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
For a lemon herb shrimp orzo dish, consider adding fresh basil or dill.
If you prefer a creamy texture, mix in some heavy cream or Greek yogurt.

Best Ways to Serve Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp

This dish is incredibly versatile. Serve it as a main course alongside a simple green salad for a light meal, or pair it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious flavors. It also makes for a refreshing lemon feta shrimp orzo salad when chilled, perfect for summer picnics.

How to Store and Reheat Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp

To store your Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp, let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out. This dish is also great for meal prep, as it holds up well.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp

What’s the secret to perfect Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp?

The secret lies in using fresh ingredients and not overcooking the shrimp. This ensures they remain tender and juicy, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.

Can I make Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the orzo and shrimp in advance. Just keep the components separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain the best texture.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp?

One common mistake is overcooking the shrimp. Always cook them until they are just pink and opaque. Also, make sure to reserve some pasta water to adjust the consistency if needed.

Variations of Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp You Can Try

If you’re looking for different twists on this dish, consider adding roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for a hearty lemon orzo shrimp with feta cheese experience. You could also create a lemon feta shrimp orzo bowl by serving it over a bed of greens and drizzling with a lemon vinaigrette. For a spicy kick, incorporate some diced jalapeños or sriracha.

For more delicious recipes, check out our latest recipes or try making Honey Garlic Shrimp for a sweet and savory dish. If you’re in the mood for something different, our Creamy Potato Soup is a comforting option.

Delicious Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp Recipe to Enjoy

Author: basmer
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp: A Bright and Flavorful Dish

Instructions

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil.
Add 1 cup of orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Once cooked, drain the orzo and set aside, reserving a little pasta water for later.
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
Sauté 3 cloves of minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add 1 pound of shrimp to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 3-4 minutes or until the shrimp are pink and opaque.
Stir the cooked orzo into the skillet with the shrimp.
Add 1/2 cup of crumbled feta cheese, 1/4 cup of chopped parsley, 1/4 cup of halved cherry tomatoes, and 1 tablespoon of capers. Drizzle with the juice of 1 lemon and add the lemon zest. Toss gently to combine all ingredients.
If the mixture seems dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to help create a creamy consistency.
Serve the Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp warm, garnished with additional parsley and lemon wedges if desired. Enjoy!