If you’re craving a dish that bursts with bright, fresh flavors and comes together in just about 35 minutes, this Lemony Shrimp and Feta Orzo Recipe is exactly what you need on your weeknight dinner table. Juicy shrimp, tangy lemon, creamy feta, and tender orzo pasta all meld into a harmonious bowl of vibrant Mediterranean goodness. It’s light yet satisfying, and once you try it, it quickly becomes one of those go-to meals that feels both fancy and effortless. Trust me, this dish will have you reaching for seconds and eagerly sharing the recipe with friends and family alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Lemony Shrimp and Feta Orzo Recipe lies in its simple but essential ingredients. Each one plays a starring role, from the bright lemon zest that wakes up your taste buds to the creamy feta that adds a salty, tangy finish. Together, they create a dish that’s colorful, fresh, and full of irresistible texture.
- Raw shrimp (1 pound, peeled and deveined): Fresh or properly thawed shrimp ensures a sweet, tender bite that’s the star protein of the dish.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon plus more if needed): Adds richness and helps bring out the flavors of the onions and garlic.
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing every ingredient.
- Yellow or sweet onion (⅓ cup, finely chopped): Provides a subtle sweetness and soft texture foundation.
- Garlic (2 to 3 cloves, minced): A fragrant punch that pairs beautifully with seafood and lemon.
- Orzo (1 cup, uncooked): This tiny pasta cooks quickly and soaks up all the lovely citrus and broth flavors.
- Roma tomatoes (2 medium, diced): Fresh tomatoes add juicy bursts of brightness and a lovely color contrast.
- Low-sodium chicken broth (2¼ cups): Moistens the orzo and infuses a savory depth without overpowering the delicate shrimp.
- Lemon zest (from 1 lemon): Brings a vibrant, aromatic lift that defines the dish’s character.
- Fresh lemon juice (1 to 2 tablespoons, to taste): Adds the perfect balance of tangy brightness and freshness.
- Feta cheese (½ cup, crumbled): Creamy, salty, and slightly tangy, feta melts slightly into the warm orzo for an irresistible finish.
- Fresh basil (¼ cup, thinly sliced): A fragrant herbaceous note that complements the lemon and feta perfectly.
How to Make Lemony Shrimp and Feta Orzo Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Cook the Shrimp
Start by making sure your shrimp are fully thawed and dry—this helps them sear nicely instead of steaming. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then arrange the shrimp in an even layer. Season them with salt and pepper, then cook just until they turn pink and opaque, about 1 to 2 minutes per side. Overcooking shrimp can make them rubbery, so keep an eye on them! Transfer the shrimp to a plate and tent loosely with foil to stay warm. Your shrimp will be tender, juicy, and packed with flavor.
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic
Lower the heat to medium and add the finely chopped onion to the skillet. If the pan looks dry, drizzle in a teaspoon or two more olive oil to keep things silky. Cook, stirring frequently, until the onion softens and turns translucent—about 3 to 4 minutes. This step builds a subtle sweetness that balances the lemon perfectly. Toss in the garlic and let it cook for just 30 seconds or so, releasing its aroma without browning or burning.
Step 3: Toast the Orzo
To bring out a subtle nutty flavor, stir the uncooked orzo into the onion and garlic mixture and cook it for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly. This gentle toasting step really elevates the texture and taste to the next level and ensures each grain has a little more dimension.
Step 4: Add Tomatoes, Broth, and Lemon Zest
Next, stir in the diced Roma tomatoes, then pour in the low-sodium chicken broth. Add the lemon zest straight into the pan so its oils and fragrance infuse the cooking liquid. Bring everything to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat and cover. Let the orzo cook for 9 to 11 minutes, stirring once or twice, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. You’ll love how all the flavors come together in this perfectly juicy base.
Step 5: Add Lemon Juice and Shrimp Back into the Pan
Once the orzo is ready, remove the skillet from heat and stir in about a tablespoon of fresh lemon juice. Taste and add more if you want a stronger citrus pop! Gently fold the cooked shrimp back into the orzo, warming them through without overcooking. This step finishes the dish with a bright, fresh touch that makes every bite sing.
Step 6: Fold in Feta and Basil
Finally, just before serving, stir in the crumbled feta cheese and sliced fresh basil. The feta melts slightly into the warm orzo, creating a creamy, tangy richness, while the basil adds a cool, herbal note that rounds out the dish so beautifully. At this point, your Lemony Shrimp and Feta Orzo Recipe is ready to serve and enjoy!
How to Serve Lemony Shrimp and Feta Orzo Recipe
Garnishes
For a little extra flair, sprinkle some additional crumbled feta or freshly chopped basil right on top before serving. A few thin lemon slices or a couple of lemon wedges on the side invite you to add a final touch of brightness. A drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a dusting of freshly cracked black pepper can also enhance the presentation and flavor.
Side Dishes
While this dish is flavorful and filling on its own, pairing it with crisp green salads or roasted vegetables like asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers transforms it into a well-rounded meal. The fresh, simple sides echo the Mediterranean vibes and keep the meal light and refreshing yet satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Lemony Shrimp and Feta Orzo Recipe in pretty bowls or plates that showcase the vibrant colors of the tomatoes, basil, and shrimp. For a party or gathering, try presenting it in small, individual ramekins or even as a warm salad in lettuce cups for a fun twist. Garnish with edible flowers or microgreens to impress guests visually and flavorfully.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers of this Lemony Shrimp and Feta Orzo Recipe should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 2 days. The flavors tend to meld even more overnight, making for an excellent next-day meal.
Freezing
While the shrimp and orzo are delicious fresh, freezing this dish is not recommended as the texture of both shrimp and orzo can suffer upon thawing. For best results, only make enough to enjoy within a couple of days.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the leftovers in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen the orzo. This helps prevent the pasta from drying out. Avoid microwaving for long periods, as shrimp can become tough and overcooked. Garnish again with fresh basil or feta after reheating to revive those fresh flavors.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure the shrimp is fully thawed and patted dry before cooking to get a nice sear and avoid excess moisture in the pan.
Is orzo gluten-free?
Traditional orzo is made from wheat and contains gluten, but you can find gluten-free orzo alternatives made from rice or corn if you need to avoid gluten.
Can I substitute the chicken broth for vegetable broth?
Yes, vegetable broth works wonderfully as a vegetarian-friendly alternative and keeps the dish flavorful and light.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the onions or sprinkle some crushed chili over the finished dish for a delicious kick of heat.
Can I prepare Lemony Shrimp and Feta Orzo Recipe in advance?
You can prep the ingredients ahead of time, like chopping vegetables and zesting lemons, but it’s best to cook the dish fresh for optimal texture and flavor, especially regarding the shrimp.
Final Thoughts
This Lemony Shrimp and Feta Orzo Recipe is a bright, flavorful way to enjoy seafood and pasta in one delightful dish that feels both simple and special. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or impressing guests at a weekend gathering, it delivers freshness, comfort, and satisfaction every time. Don’t wait to give it a try—you’ll wonder how you ever lived without this cheerful, delicious meal in your recipe collection!
Print
Lemony Shrimp and Feta Orzo Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Description
Lemony Orzo with Shrimp and Feta is a bright and flavorful Mediterranean-inspired dish featuring tender shrimp, aromatic lemon, sweet tomatoes, and creamy feta cheese combined with perfectly cooked orzo pasta. This quick and easy skillet meal is perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner packed with fresh ingredients and vibrant tastes.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Seasoning
- 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 to taste
Vegetables and Aromatics
- ⅓ cup finely chopped yellow or sweet onion
- 2 to 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 medium Roma tomatoes (diced, about 1 to 1 ¼ cups)
Pasta and Liquids
- 1 cup orzo (uncooked)
- 2¼ cups low-sodium chicken broth
Flavorings and Toppings
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 to 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (to taste)
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- ¼ cup thinly sliced fresh basil
Instructions
- Prepare Shrimp: Place your fully-thawed shrimp in a colander to drain any excess liquid and pat dry with paper towels. Set aside to ensure they cook properly without steaming.
- Cook Shrimp: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp in an even layer, season lightly with salt and pepper, and cook for 1 to 2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Transfer shrimp to a plate and cover loosely with foil, leaving any flavorful juices in the skillet.
- Sauté Aromatics: Reduce heat to medium. Add chopped onion to the skillet with 1 to 2 teaspoons extra olive oil if needed. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally until onions are softened and translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, taking care not to burn.
- Toast Orzo: Stir in the orzo and cook for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly to lightly toast the pasta and enhance its flavor.
- Add Tomatoes and Broth: Mix in diced tomatoes, pour in the chicken broth, and add lemon zest. Increase heat as needed to bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and cook for 9 to 11 minutes, stirring once or twice, until the orzo is tender and most liquid is absorbed.
- Finish with Lemon and Shrimp: Remove skillet from heat and stir in 1 tablespoon lemon juice. Add the cooked shrimp back to the skillet and fold gently to warm through evenly without overcooking.
- Add Feta and Basil: Just before serving, fold in crumbled feta cheese and thinly sliced fresh basil leaves to infuse the dish with creamy and herbaceous notes.
- Serve: Serve the lemony orzo with shrimp warm, either as a stand-alone meal or alongside a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete dinner.
Notes
- Ensure shrimp are fully thawed and patted dry to avoid excess liquid that can dilute flavors.
- If using frozen shrimp, thaw overnight in the fridge or quickly in cold water.
- Adjust lemon juice to your taste preference for more or less tanginess.
- Low-sodium chicken broth is recommended to control salt levels; adjust seasoning at the end.
- This dish can be made gluten-free by substituting orzo with gluten-free pasta or quinoa.
