This bright dish combines zesty lemon, creamy feta, and tender orzo pasta with flavorful shrimp. It’s fresh, simple, and perfect for a quick dinner!
I love how the shrimp adds a nice touch of protein, making it a complete meal. Plus, it’s so easy to whip up, even on busy nights. Who doesn’t enjoy a tasty meal without the fuss? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orzo Pasta: This rice-shaped pasta cooks quickly and pairs well with the garlic shrimp. If you don’t have orzo, try using another small pasta like couscous, quinoa, or even farro for a heartier dish.
Shrimp: Fresh shrimp gives the best flavor, but frozen shrimp works well too. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. You could substitute shrimp with chicken or a plant-based protein like tempeh if you prefer.
Feta Cheese: Feta adds creaminess and tang. If you’re avoiding dairy, try using a dairy-free feta or even crumbled tofu for a similar texture without the cheese.
Lemon: The zest and juice of the lemon brighten up the dish. If you don’t have a fresh lemon, a splash of bottled lemon juice can work, but fresh is always best.
What’s the Best Way to Cook Shrimp Without Overdoing It?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky since they cook quickly. The key is to pay attention and act fast! Here’s how to ensure they’re perfectly cooked:
- Heat the oil over medium heat, and once it’s warm, add the garlic to infuse the flavor before adding the shrimp.
- Place the shrimp in the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side. Watch them closely – once they turn pink, they’re done!
- Remove them from the skillet as soon as they’re cooked to prevent them from becoming rubbery.
With these tips, you’ll have tender and juicy shrimp perfect for your orzo!
Easy Lemon Feta Orzo with Garlic Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups water or chicken broth
- 1 lb (450g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 1 lemon (zest and juice)
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tbsp butter (optional, for shrimp)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dinner takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll need around 10 minutes to prep your ingredients and about 20 minutes for cooking. It’s a quick meal that packs a punch of flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Orzo:
In a medium pot, bring 2 cups of water or chicken broth to a boil. Add the orzo and a pinch of salt. Cook according to the package instructions (usually about 8-10 minutes) until the orzo is al dente. Once cooked, drain any excess liquid and set aside.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
While the orzo is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant—be careful not to let it burn!
3. Cook the Shrimp:
Add the shrimp to the skillet and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
4. Combine Everything:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the butter if you’re using it. Then, add the cooked orzo. Stir in the zest of the lemon, the juice of the lemon, and crumbled feta cheese. Mix everything well to combine and warm it through.
5. Mix in the Shrimp:
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and gently toss them with the orzo mixture until everything is well combined.
6. Finishing Touches:
Remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle the chopped parsley on top and add more salt and pepper if needed. Your dish is all set!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the lemon feta orzo with garlic shrimp warm, garnished with extra lemon wedges or crumbled feta if desired.
Enjoy your bright, flavorful Easy Lemon Feta Orzo with Garlic Shrimp! It’s a dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends!
FAQ for Easy Lemon Feta Orzo with Garlic Shrimp
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. You can thaw them overnight in the fridge, or for a quick option, place them in a sealed plastic bag and submerge in cold water for about 15-20 minutes.
Can I Substitute Orzo with Another Type of Pasta?
Yes, you can! If you don’t have orzo, you can use other small pasta shapes like couscous, quinoa, or even small shells or penne. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly if necessary.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just warm them gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to keep it moist.
What Can I Serve with This Dish?
This orzo dish is great on its own, but you can serve it with a side salad or some steamed vegetables for a more complete meal. It also pairs nicely with a glass of white wine! Enjoy!
