This Lemon Feta Orzo with Garlic Shrimp is a bright and tasty dish! The fluffy orzo pairs perfectly with creamy feta cheese, zesty lemon, and juicy shrimp for a delightful meal.
The garlic shrimp adds a wonderful touch that makes the dish smell amazing while cooking. I love serving this up for a light dinner; it’s quick to make and so satisfying. Yum! 🍤🍋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orzo: This cute, rice-shaped pasta is perfect for this dish. If you don’t have orzo, you can use other small pasta shapes like couscous or ditalini. Keep in mind that cooking time may vary slightly.
Shrimp: I love using large shrimp for this recipe. If you prefer a different protein, chicken breast cubed or even tofu for a vegetarian option works well. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Feta Cheese: Feta adds a creamy and tangy flavor. If you’re lactose intolerant or vegan, try using a plant-based feta or nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste without dairy.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a pop of flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can substitute, but fresh always tastes better. I suggest going with what you have on hand!
How Do I Cook Shrimp Perfectly Without Overdoing It?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky since they cook quickly. Here’s how to make sure they come out just right:
- Heat your skillet on medium-high before adding the shrimp.
- Season shrimp just before cooking to enhance flavor without drawing out too much moisture.
- Cook until they turn pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. They’ll curl up when ready!
- Remove them from the pan immediately once cooked; overcooking will make them tough.
With these tips, your shrimp will be juicy and delicious, making for a lovely Lemon Feta Orzo dish!
How to Make Lemon Feta Orzo with Garlic Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups water or chicken broth
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty Lemon Feta Orzo with Garlic Shrimp should take about 20-25 minutes total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping and cooking the orzo and shrimp, and a few minutes mixing it all together at the end. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Orzo:
In a medium saucepan, bring the water or chicken broth to a boil. Once boiling, add the orzo and cook for about 8-10 minutes until it’s tender. Once cooked, drain any excess liquid and set the orzo aside.
2. Sauté the Shrimp:
While the orzo is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp to the skillet, season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Cook for about 2 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through. Once they’re ready, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Add Garlic and Combine:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until the garlic becomes fragrant. Then, add the cooked orzo to the skillet along with the lemon juice and lemon zest. Stir everything together and heat through for about 2 minutes.
4. Final Touches:
Remove the skillet from heat and gently stir in the crumbled feta cheese and chopped parsley. Make sure to combine everything evenly. Then, return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss everything together carefully.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Taste your dish, and adjust the seasoning with extra salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed. Serve immediately, with additional parsley or lemon wedges for garnish if you’d like. Enjoy your delicious and vibrant Lemon Feta Orzo with Garlic Shrimp!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! If you don’t have orzo, you can substitute it with other small pasta shapes like ditalini, couscous, or even quinoa. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary, so adjust accordingly.
How Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
You can prep the orzo and cook the shrimp in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the orzo and shrimp together in a skillet with a splash of water or broth until warmed through.
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Shrimp?
No problem! You can substitute shrimp with diced chicken breast, cooked chickpeas, or tofu for a vegetarian option. Adjust the cooking time based on your protein choice to ensure everything is thoroughly cooked.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. You might want to add a drizzle of olive oil or a bit of water to keep it from drying out.
