Greek Shrimp with Orzo and Feta (One-Pan, 30-Minute Meal)

Greek Shrimp with Orzo and Feta (One-Pan, 30-Minute Meal) is an incredible dish that you can whip up in no time! Perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests, this meal combines tender shrimp with flavorful orzo, bright tomatoes, and creamy feta. Whether you’re looking for a quick family dinner or a show-stopping dish for a gathering, this recipe delivers on taste and presentation. Plus, it’s easy to customize to fit dietary needs, making it a versatile addition to your recipe collection.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just one pan and 30 minutes, you can create a delicious meal without the stress.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of smoked paprika, chili powder, and fresh herbs ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
• Versatile Options: Easily adjust ingredients to make it gluten-free or dairy-free, catering to various dietary preferences.
• Healthy and Nutritious: High in protein and loaded with vegetables, it’s a wholesome choice for any meal.
• Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors of the ingredients make this dish look as good as it tastes.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare Greek Shrimp with Orzo and Feta efficiently, gather essential kitchen tools that will make cooking a breeze.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife and cutting board

Why These Tools Matter

• Large skillet or sauté pan: Provides enough space for even cooking of all ingredients while allowing flavors to meld together.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient portions for consistent results every time.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware while evenly distributing flavors.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp

• 1.5 lb raw shrimp (peeled and deveined (large – about 15-20 count per pound))
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• ¼ teaspoon salt (to taste)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Orzo Base

• 1.5 cups orzo
• 3 cups chicken stock (or vegetable stock or water)
• 8 oz cherry tomatoes (red and yellow, sliced in half)
• ⅓ cup sun-dried tomatoes (in olive oil, chopped)
• ⅓ cup kalamata olives (sliced)
• ¼ cup green olives (sliced)

For the Topping

• 6 oz feta cheese (crumbled or diced into small cubes)
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice (or lime juice, freshly squeezed)
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ¼ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ¼ cup fresh basil (chopped)
• salt and pepper

How to Make Greek Shrimp with Orzo and Feta (One-Pan, 30-Minute Meal)

Step 1: Sauté the Shrimp

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil.
2. Once hot, add the shrimp along with smoked paprika, chili powder, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and salt.
3. Cook until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, about 3–4 minutes. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Orzo

1. In the same skillet, add more olive oil if needed.
2. Add the orzo to the pan and stir for about 1 minute until slightly toasted.
3. Pour in chicken stock (or vegetable stock), cherry tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, kalamata olives, and green olives. Stir well.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

1. Bring the mixture to a boil then reduce heat to a simmer.
2. Cover the skillet for about 10–12 minutes or until most of the liquid is absorbed and the orzo is tender.

Step 4: Finish Up

1. Return cooked shrimp to the skillet; add feta cheese, lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, chopped basil, salt, and pepper.
2. Gently mix everything together until well combined.

Step 5: Serve

1. Serve warm as a delightful main course!
2. Enjoy your delicious Greek Shrimp with Orzo and Feta!

How to Serve Greek Shrimp with Orzo and Feta (One-Pan, 30-Minute Meal)

Serving Greek Shrimp with Orzo and Feta can elevate your dining experience. This dish not only looks vibrant but also offers a delightful mix of flavors. Here are some creative ways to serve it.

With Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with Basil: Add chopped fresh basil on top for a burst of flavor and color.
• Sprinkle Dill: A sprinkle of dill complements the shrimp beautifully.

On a Bed of Greens

• Serve over Spinach: Place the orzo mixture on a bed of fresh spinach for added nutrition.
• Add Arugula: The peppery taste of arugula pairs well with the Mediterranean flavors.

Accompanied by Bread

• With Pita Bread: Serve warm pita on the side for scooping up the orzo and shrimp.
• Garlic Bread: A slice of garlic bread adds an extra layer of flavor.

In a Bowl

• Create a Salad Bowl: Mix in additional greens and vegetables for a hearty salad.
• Layer in a Jar: For meal prep, layer ingredients in a jar for an easy grab-and-go lunch.

How to Perfect Greek Shrimp with Orzo and Feta (One-Pan, 30-Minute Meal)

Perfecting this dish can take it from good to great. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your Greek Shrimp with Orzo and Feta shines.

• Bold Seasoning: Don’t skimp on spices; they enhance the overall flavor profile.
• Fresh Ingredients Only: Use fresh tomatoes and herbs for the best taste and aroma.
• Cook Shrimp Just Right: Avoid overcooking shrimp; they should be pink and opaque.
• Adjust Stock Amounts: If you prefer a creamier texture, feel free to add more stock gradually.
• Experiment with Cheese: Try different types of cheese like goat cheese for varied flavor profiles.
• Add Extra Veggies: Incorporate bell peppers or zucchini for additional nutrition and color.

Best Side Dishes for Greek Shrimp with Orzo and Feta (One-Pan, 30-Minute Meal)

Pairing side dishes can enhance your meal’s overall appeal. Here are some complementary sides that work wonderfully with Greek Shrimp with Orzo and Feta.

1. Greek Salad: A refreshing mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta that balances the richness of the main dish.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add depth and flavor—try zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus.
3. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs provides a comforting side that absorbs flavors well.
4. Tzatziki Sauce: A cool yogurt-based sauce made with cucumber and garlic enhances the Mediterranean essence.
5. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with lemon dressing adds protein while keeping things fresh.
6. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet grilled corn pairs nicely, adding both sweetness and texture to your plate.
7. Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmas): These savory bites provide an authentic touch to your Greek meal.
8. Hummus Platter: Serve hummus with assorted veggies or pita chips as a healthy appetizer before the main course.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When cooking Greek Shrimp with Orzo and Feta, it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are a few tips to help you succeed.

• Overcooking the shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly; overcooking makes them tough. Aim for just 2-3 minutes per side.
• Not seasoning adequately: Seasoning is key to flavor, so don’t skip adding salt and spices. Taste as you cook!
• Using cold stock: Always use warm or hot chicken stock when adding orzo to ensure it cooks evenly and quickly.
• Ignoring pasta cooking time: Orzo can become mushy if cooked too long. Check the package instructions for timing.
• Skipping fresh herbs: Fresh basil adds a bright flavor. Don’t skip this step; it truly enhances the dish!

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Greek Shrimp with Orzo and Feta can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Greek Shrimp with Orzo and Feta (One-Pan, 30-Minute Meal)

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Greek Shrimp with Orzo and Feta (One-Pan, 30-Minute Meal)

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until heated through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring gently until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to serve Greek Shrimp with Orzo and Feta?

This dish is best served warm right off the stove, garnished with extra fresh basil or parsley for added flavor.

Can I use different seafood in the Greek Shrimp with Orzo and Feta?

Yes! Feel free to swap shrimp for scallops or other seafood options according to your preference.

How can I customize Greek Shrimp with Orzo and Feta?

You can add different vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers. Adjust the cheese or seasoning based on your taste!

Is Greek Shrimp with Orzo and Feta gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, substitute regular orzo with gluten-free orzo pasta made from rice or lentils.

Conclusion

Greek Shrimp with Orzo and Feta is a delightful meal that’s quick, flavorful, and versatile. Whether you’re serving it for family dinner or impressing guests, this one-pan recipe offers endless customization options. Enjoy experimenting with different vegetables and spices to make it your own!

---