Description
Zesty Lemon Feta Orzo with Succulent Shrimp is a bright and refreshing dish that combines tender shrimp, creamy feta cheese, and al dente orzo pasta all infused with fresh lemon juice and zest. Perfectly balanced in texture and flavor, this quick and easy meal is ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, and can be customized with your favorite herbs, veggies, or dietary preferences.
Ingredients
Scale
Orzo and Pasta
- 1 cup orzo pasta
Shrimp and Protein
- 12 oz fresh peeled and deveined shrimp
Cheese
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
Citrus and Flavorings
- Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tablespoons)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Oils and Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons good quality olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Fresh Herbs
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or dill
Instructions
- Cook the Orzo: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the orzo pasta. Cook until al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain and set aside, reserving a splash of the pasta water.
- Sauté the Shrimp: While the orzo cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the seasoned shrimp with salt and pepper and cook each side for 2-3 minutes until pink and cooked through.
- Combine and Flavor: Add the cooked orzo to the skillet with the shrimp. Stir in fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the mixture. Gently fold in crumbled feta cheese and chopped herbs, allowing flavors to meld over low heat.
- Final Touches: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. For extra brightness, add more lemon juice or garnish with additional fresh herbs. Serve immediately while warm and flavorful.
Notes
- Use freshly squeezed lemon juice and freshly grated lemon zest for maximum citrus flavor.
- Do not overcook shrimp; remove from heat as soon as they turn pink to keep them tender.
- Reserve some pasta water to help create a smooth sauce when combined with feta and lemon.
- Use good-quality, authentic feta for best taste and texture.
- Chop herbs finely to evenly distribute flavor and improve presentation.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 500 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 150 mg
Keywords: lemon shrimp orzo, feta orzo pasta, quick shrimp dinner, Mediterranean shrimp recipe, lemon feta pasta, easy shrimp recipe
