why make this recipe
Shrimp Orzo with Lemon & Feta is a delightful dish that mixes fresh flavors with a comforting texture. It’s quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for a weekday dinner or a special occasion. The combination of shrimp, pasta, and vibrant vegetables delivers a satisfying meal that everyone will love. Plus, the lemon and feta add a refreshing zest that brightens up the entire dish.
how to make Shrimp Orzo with Lemon & Feta
Ingredients:
- 8 oz orzo pasta
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 cups spinach
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
- Cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Add shrimp to the skillet and cook until they turn pink, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, cherry tomatoes, and spinach; cook until spinach wilts.
- Add the cooked orzo to the skillet and mix well.
- Remove from heat and stir in feta cheese.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
how to serve Shrimp Orzo with Lemon & Feta
Serve Shrimp Orzo with Lemon & Feta hot, straight from the skillet. You can enjoy it as a main dish or pair it with a light salad for a complete meal. A slice of crusty bread on the side is also a nice touch!
how to store Shrimp Orzo with Lemon & Feta
To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop. If the pasta seems dry after reheating, you can add a splash of water or olive oil.
tips to make Shrimp Orzo with Lemon & Feta
- Make sure to not overcook the shrimp; they should be pink and firm.
- You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra color and nutrition.
- For a spicier kick, consider adding red pepper flakes while cooking.
variation
If you prefer, you can swap the shrimp for chicken or keep it vegetarian by omitting the meat altogether. You can replace spinach with kale or arugula for a different taste and texture.
FAQs
1. Can I use another type of pasta instead of orzo?
Yes, you can use any small pasta, such as couscous or even small shells, but cooking times may vary.
2. Is this dish gluten-free?
No, but you can use gluten-free orzo or pasta to make it gluten-free.
3. How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Simply omit the shrimp and increase the amount of spinach or add other vegetables of your choice. You can also use chickpeas for added protein.
Shrimp Orzo with Lemon & Feta
Ingredients
Method
- Cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Add shrimp to the skillet and cook until they turn pink, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, cherry tomatoes, and spinach; cook until spinach wilts.
- Add the cooked orzo to the skillet and mix well.
- Remove from heat and stir in feta cheese.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.