This bright dish of Easy Greek Shrimp Orzo is a winner! With juicy shrimp, tender orzo, salty feta, and olives, it’s a tasty meal that’s full of flavor.
You can whip this up in about 30 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight dinner. I love how all those yummy ingredients come together! Serve with a side salad for a great meal.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orzo Pasta: This tiny pasta is perfect for this dish, but if you don’t have orzo, you can use other small pasta like couscous or ditalini. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the pasta you choose.
Shrimp: Fresh or frozen shrimp works well! If you can’t find shrimp, you might use chicken or tofu for a different twist. Always prefer peeled and deveined for ease.
Feta Cheese: Feta brings a salty kick! If you’re not a fan, you can try goat cheese or even ricotta for a creamier texture. Vegan feta alternatives are available too if needed.
Kalamata Olives: They add a Mediterranean touch. If those are unavailable, green olives or even capers make a nice swap. Just be cautious of the saltiness when substituting!
Broth: Chicken or vegetable broth adds depth to the dish. If you want a lighter version, use water with a pinch of salt, or homemade broth if you have it on hand.
How Do I Ensure My Orzo is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking orzo can be tricky, but here are some steps to get it just right:
- Toast the orzo in oil before adding the broth. This step adds flavor and helps prevent sticking.
- Cook it in the broth instead of plain water for more taste.
- Keep an eye on the orzo as it cooks. Stir it occasionally to avoid clumping together.
- Finish cooking uncovered. This helps any remaining liquid absorb nicely and gives you that perfect al dente texture.
Following these tips will help you create a delightful Greek-inspired dish that’s sure to impress everyone at the table!
Easy Greek Shrimp Orzo with Feta and Olives
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook, for a total of about 30 minutes. It’s a quick and enjoyable method to create a delicious Mediterranean meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Shrimp:
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp, seasoning with salt, pepper, and half of the oregano. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are fully cooked. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute, stirring frequently, until the garlic is fragrant but not browned. Be mindful as garlic can burn quickly!
3. Toast the Orzo:
Add the orzo to the skillet, stirring to coat it in the oil and garlic. Toast the orzo for 1-2 minutes while stirring regularly to give it a little extra flavor.
4. Cook the Orzo:
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring it to a simmer. Cover the skillet and let it cook for about 8-10 minutes until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Add Remaining Ingredients:
When the orzo is nearly done, stir in the cherry tomatoes, kalamata olives, lemon zest, and the remaining oregano. Cook uncovered for an additional 2 minutes to heat the tomatoes and olives through.
6. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and drizzle the lemon juice over the entire dish. Gently toss everything together to combine evenly.
7. Finishing Touches:
Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and chopped parsley on top. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
8. Serve:
Serve your Easy Greek Shrimp Orzo warm, garnished with extra lemon wedges if desired. Enjoy the burst of Mediterranean flavors!
Bon appétit! You’re going to love this fresh and flavorful dish!
FAQ for Easy Greek Shrimp Orzo with Feta and Olives
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen shrimp, just make sure to thaw them before cooking. You can thaw shrimp overnight in the fridge or place them in a sealed bag and submerge them in cold water for about 15-20 minutes. Pat them dry to prevent extra moisture in the dish.
Can I Make This Dish Without Feta Cheese?
Yes! If you prefer to skip feta, you can use goat cheese or even a dairy-free cheese alternative if you want to keep it vegan. The dish will still be delicious and creamy without it!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, just warm it gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth or water if it seems dry, and stir until heated through.
Can I Substitute Orzo for Another Type of Pasta?
Yes, you can! If you don’t have orzo, try using other small pasta shapes like pearl couscous, ditalini, or small shells. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed according to the pasta instructions on the package!