This bright dish combines fluffy orzo pasta with tangy lemon and creamy feta, topped with delicious garlic shrimp. It’s a fresh and flavorful way to enjoy your meal!
I love how quick and tasty this recipe is—it always impresses! Plus, the shrimp is a fun way to add some protein to the mix. Who doesn’t like a bit of fancy pasta? 🍤
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orzo Pasta: This tiny pasta is perfect for soaking up flavors. If you don’t have orzo, other small pasta like couscous, ditalini, or even quinoa can work just fine.
Large Shrimp: Fresh shrimp is ideal, but if you’re in a pinch, frozen shrimp will do! Just make sure to thaw them before cooking. For a vegetarian twist, consider using sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas.
Feta Cheese: Feta adds a salty creaminess. If you want something milder, goat cheese or ricotta can be swapped in. You could even use a non-dairy feta for a vegan option.
Lemon: Fresh lemon juice and zest are key for brightness. If you don’t have a lemon, lime is a great substitution, or even a splash of vinegar can add needed acidity.
How Do You Cook Shrimp Perfectly Every Time?
Cooking shrimp is quick and easy, but getting it just right can be tricky. Here’s how to ensure that it’s always tender and juicy:
- Make sure the skillet is hot before adding shrimp. This helps sear them and lock in moisture.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary. This ensures even cooking.
- Cook shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes on each side. Overcooking makes them tough.
- Adding the garlic for only the last 30 seconds prevents it from burning, which can taste bitter.
With these tips, you’ll make shrimp like a pro every time! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Lemon Feta Orzo with Garlic Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional), to taste
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 20 minutes to prep and cook. You’ll spend approximately 10 minutes cooking the orzo and shrimp, with some time for mixing everything together and garnishing. Quick and easy, perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Orzo:
In a medium saucepan, bring the water or chicken broth to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions, which is usually about 8-10 minutes until it’s al dente. Once done, drain any extra liquid and return the orzo back to the pan.
2. Mix in Flavor:
Stir in half of the olive oil, the lemon zest, lemon juice, crumbled feta cheese, and half of the chopped parsley into the hot orzo. Season it all with salt and pepper to taste. Keep it warm on low heat while you prepare the shrimp.
3. Prepare the Garlic Shrimp:
In a large skillet, heat the remaining olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant, but be careful not to burn it!
4. Cook the Shrimp:
Place the shrimp in the skillet in a single layer. Season them with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn a lovely pink color and are cooked through.
5. Add Butter for Extra Flavor (Optional):
If you want an extra touch of richness, stir in 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter at the end of cooking. It’ll melt and make the shrimp even more delicious!
6. Combine and Serve:
Remove the skillet from heat. Spoon the garlic shrimp over the lemon feta orzo. Garnish with the remaining parsley for a fresh touch.
7. Enjoy Your Meal:
Serve immediately and dive into the bright flavors of your Easy Lemon Feta Orzo with Garlic Shrimp. Enjoy every bite!
FAQ for Easy Lemon Feta Orzo with Garlic Shrimp
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. You can thaw frozen shrimp overnight in the refrigerator or place them in a sealed bag and submerge them in cold water for about 30 minutes.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm the orzo and shrimp in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to maintain moisture.
Can I Make This Dish Vegan?
Yes! To make this dish vegan, simply omit the shrimp and feta. You can substitute the feta with a plant-based feta cheese or leave it out altogether and add extra veggies for flavor and texture. You can also use olive oil instead of butter in the shrimp preparation.
What Can I Serve with This Dish?
This dish is quite filling on its own, but you can pair it with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. A light lemon vinaigrette salad complements the flavors beautifully!
