Description
A vibrant and flavorful Greek-inspired shrimp orzo dish featuring tender shrimp, savory Kalamata olives, juicy cherry tomatoes, and creamy feta cheese. This quick and easy meal is perfect for a wholesome dinner packed with Mediterranean flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp and Seasoning
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Pasta and Vegetables
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 small red onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
Fats and Dairy
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
Flavorings and Garnish
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Orzo: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the orzo pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the orzo well and set aside.
- Heat the Fats: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil and butter. Allow the butter to melt completely and the mixture to heat through.
- Cook the Shrimp: Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and keep them aside.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: In the same skillet, add the diced red onion. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onions have softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add Tomatoes and Olives: Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and sliced Kalamata olives. Cook for another 2 minutes so that the tomatoes soften slightly but still hold their shape.
- Combine Orzo and Veggies: Add the cooked orzo pasta to the skillet, mixing it thoroughly with the sautéed vegetables and olives to combine all the flavors.
- Return Shrimp to Skillet: Place the cooked shrimp back into the skillet with the orzo and vegetables. Toss gently to combine everything evenly without breaking the shrimp.
- Finish with Seasonings and Cheese: Drizzle fresh lemon juice over the skillet, sprinkle in dried oregano and crumbled feta cheese, and toss lightly to distribute.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve the Greek shrimp orzo warm and enjoy the fresh Mediterranean tastes.
Notes
- You can substitute the shrimp with chicken if preferred, cooking it fully before combining.
- For a spicier version, increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper.
- This dish can be served chilled as a pasta salad by refrigerating after cooking and omitting the butter.
- Use gluten-free orzo or substitute with rice for gluten-free adaptations.
- To enhance the lemon flavor, add some lemon zest along with the juice in the final step.
