Creamy Shrimp Orzo with Lemon & Feta Recipe

Introduction

Creamy Shrimp Orzo with Lemon & Feta is a bright and comforting dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Tender shrimp and tangy feta combine with lemony orzo to create a delightful Mediterranean-inspired meal.

Ingredients

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 0.5 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for shrimp)
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2.25 cups low-sodium chicken stock
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
• 0.5 cup crumbled feta
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a medium bowl, toss shrimp with baking soda, red pepper flakes, salt, pepper, and olive oil. Let marinate for at least 10 minutes.
2. Step 2: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add orzo and toast, stirring for 2–3 minutes until golden.
3. Step 3: Add minced garlic to the orzo. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in chicken stock, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and cover. Simmer for 10–12 minutes until orzo is tender.
4. Step 4: While the orzo cooks, sear shrimp in another pan with a drizzle of oil over medium-high heat for 1–2 minutes per side. Set aside.
5. Step 5: Once the orzo is tender, stir in lemon zest and juice, then add the cooked shrimp. Fold in feta and parsley. Add a splash of broth if needed to loosen the mixture.

Tips & Variations

• For extra creaminess, stir in a spoonful of Greek yogurt or cream cheese just before serving.
• Replace chicken stock with vegetable broth to make this dish pescatarian-friendly.
• Add cherry tomatoes or spinach for more color and nutrients.
• If you prefer less heat, omit the red pepper flakes or reduce the amount.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a small splash of broth or water to loosen the orzo if it has thickened.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp works well. Thaw completely and pat dry before marinating to ensure even cooking and better texture.

Is there a substitute for orzo pasta?

You can substitute orzo with other small pasta shapes like acini di pepe or even couscous for a similar texture and cooking time.

Creamy Shrimp Orzo with Lemon & Feta Recipe

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★★★★★

5 from 101 reviews

This Creamy Shrimp Orzo with Lemon & Feta is a vibrant and flavorful Mediterranean-inspired dish featuring tender shrimp, perfectly cooked orzo pasta, and a bright lemony feta finish. The orzo is toasted and simmered in chicken stock to develop a rich, creamy texture without cream, while the shrimp is marinated and seared to juicy perfection, creating a satisfying meal that comes together quickly and makes for a delightful dinner option.

• Author: Tim
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Shrimp Marinade

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 0.5 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for shrimp)

Orzo and Sauce

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2.25 cups low-sodium chicken stock
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
• 0.5 cup crumbled feta
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

1. Marinate Shrimp: In a medium bowl, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with baking soda, red pepper flakes (if using), kosher salt, black pepper, and olive oil. Let the shrimp marinate for at least 10 minutes to enhance flavor and tenderness.
2. Toast Orzo: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt the unsalted butter. Add the orzo pasta and toast it, stirring continuously for 2 to 3 minutes, until it turns a lovely golden color, which develops a nutty flavor.
3. Cook Orzo with Garlic and Stock: Add the minced garlic to the toasted orzo and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the low-sodium chicken stock, increase the heat to bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 10 to 12 minutes until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
4. Sear Shrimp: While the orzo is cooking, heat a separate pan over medium-high heat with a small drizzle of olive oil. Sear the marinated shrimp for 1 to 2 minutes per side until they are opaque and cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
5. Combine and Finish: Once the orzo is tender, stir in the lemon zest and lemon juice for a bright, fresh flavor. Add the cooked shrimp to the orzo mixture, then fold in the crumbled feta cheese and chopped fresh parsley. If needed, add a splash of broth to loosen the consistency to your liking. Serve immediately and enjoy.

Notes

• Marinating the shrimp with baking soda helps to tenderize them and gives a better texture.
• Red pepper flakes add a subtle heat; omit if you prefer a milder dish.
• Use low-sodium chicken stock to control salt levels and enhance flavor.
• Feta cheese adds creaminess and tang but can be substituted with goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
• To keep it gluten free, substitute orzo with a gluten-free pasta alternative.
• Make sure to not overcook the shrimp to keep them juicy and tender.

Keywords: Shrimp Orzo, Creamy Shrimp Pasta, Lemon Feta Orzo, Mediterranean Shrimp Recipe, Easy Dinner Recipes