This Greek shrimp dish with orzo, feta, olives, and tomatoes is bright and fresh. It brings together tasty shrimp and colorful veggies in one pan for an easy meal!
I love how quick it is to make—just sauté the shrimp, toss in the orzo and goodies, and you’re set! Plus, who can resist that creamy feta? Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orzo: This pasta is small and rice-shaped, perfect for absorbing flavors. If you don’t have orzo, you can use any small pasta like couscous or ditalini, which will work just as well in this dish.
Shrimp: Fresh shrimp is best for taste. If you’re looking for convenience, frozen shrimp works too—just thaw them beforehand. You can also swap shrimp with chicken or sautéed veggies for a vegetarian option.
Olive Oil: Using good quality olive oil enhances the flavors in the dish. If you’re out, avocado oil is a suitable substitute with a mild flavor, or you can use melted butter for a different richness.
Kalamata Olives: These give a nice briny taste. If you can’t find them, try green olives or even capers for a different twist. Just adjust the saltiness accordingly!
Feta Cheese: Feta adds a creamy, tangy touch. For a non-dairy option, look for vegan feta, or even sprinkle in some nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
How Do You Cook Orzo Perfectly?
Cooking orzo may seem easy, but perfecting it is key! Here’s how to do it right:
- Always toast the orzo briefly in oil before adding liquid. This enhances its nutty flavor.
- Use enough broth; this helps the orzo absorb flavor as it cooks.
- Cover the skillet while simmering. This retains moisture and makes the cooking process faster.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. If it seems too dry, add a bit more broth.
Following these tips will make sure your orzo is just right for this delicious dish! Enjoy the process of cooking and savor every bite.
Greek Shrimp With Orzo, Feta, Olives & Tomatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- Juice of half a lemon
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Greek shrimp recipe takes about 30 minutes in total—10 minutes for preparation and around 20 minutes for cooking. It’s quick and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Shrimp:
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp, then season with salt, pepper, and half of the dried oregano. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes per side until they’re opaque and cooked through. Once done, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside. This makes the shrimp tender and flavorful!
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the chopped onion until it becomes translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. This adds a lovely base flavor to your dish!
3. Add Garlic and Orzo:
Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant—this is when your kitchen will start smelling amazing! Then, stir in the orzo, toasting it lightly for 1-2 minutes. This step enhances its nutty flavor and prepares it for cooking.
4. Combine with Broth and Veggies:
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, and then add the halved cherry tomatoes, sliced olives, remaining oregano, and red pepper flakes (if you’re using them). Season with a little salt and pepper, then bring the mixture to a boil. This will make all the flavors combine deliciously!
5. Simmer:
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer. Cook until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, about 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on it and stir occasionally, so nothing sticks to the bottom.
6. Final Touches:
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet. Gently stir everything together to combine and warm through. Remove from heat, squeeze lemon juice over the top, and sprinkle with chopped parsley and crumbled feta cheese for that creamy goodness.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Dig in while it’s warm! This Greek shrimp dish with orzo is delightful and bursting with flavor. Enjoy your meal filled with sunshine vibes and taste the deliciousness!
FAQ for Greek Shrimp With Orzo, Feta, Olives & Tomatoes
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them beforehand. The best way to thaw frozen shrimp is to leave them in the refrigerator overnight, or you can quickly thaw them under cold running water in a sealed bag. Pat dry before cooking to avoid extra moisture.
Can I Substitute the Orzo with Another Pasta?
Yes! If you don’t have orzo, you can use any small pasta like couscous, ditalini, or even quinoa as a gluten-free option. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water to keep the orzo moist.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just omit the shrimp and replace it with your favorite veggies, like bell peppers or zucchini. You could also add chickpeas for extra protein. The flavor will still be delicious and satisfying!