The Perfect Greek Shrimp Orzo Recipe with Feta, Olives & Tomatoes

Mediterranean kitchens have long celebrated this delightful shrimp orzo with a vibrant dance of flavors that capture coastal charm.

Sunshine-drenched ingredients mingle in a single skillet, creating a meal that whispers of greek islands.

Plump shrimp nestle among tender pasta grains, promising a feast for hungry souls.

Salt-kissed feta crumbles add creamy richness while kalamata olives bring unexpected depth to each bite.

Ripe tomatoes burst with natural sweetness, harmonizing the entire dish with their bright essence.

Fresh herbs scattered across the top provide an aromatic finish that makes you want to pause and savor.

Dive into this simple yet spectacular recipe that transports you straight to the aegean coastline.

Why This Greek Shrimp Orzo Is Irresistible

• Quick Mediterranean Magic: Dive into a flavor-packed dish that brings the vibrant tastes of Greece right to your kitchen with minimal effort.
• Hassle-Free Cooking: Prepare a restaurant-quality meal using just one skillet, reducing cleanup and making weeknight dinners a breeze.
• Flavor Explosion: Combine zesty shrimp, tangy feta, briny olives, and juicy tomatoes for a mouthwatering experience that satisfies every taste bud.
• Nutritious and Delicious: Pack your plate with lean protein, fresh vegetables, and wholesome orzo, creating a balanced meal that doesn't compromise on taste.

What You’ll Need for Greek Shrimp Orzo Dish

• Shrimp: Fresh seafood that provides a tender and succulent texture to the Mediterranean dish.

• Orzo: Small rice-shaped pasta that serves as the hearty base of the recipe.

• Feta Cheese: Tangy Greek cheese that adds a creamy and salty flavor profile to the dish.

• Smoked Paprika, Chili Powder, Italian Seasoning, Red Pepper Flakes: Spice blend that creates a complex and vibrant flavor combination.
• Salt, Black Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance the overall taste.

• Cherry Tomatoes: Sweet and juicy tomatoes that add freshness and color.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Concentrated tomato flavor that provides depth to the dish.
• Kalamata Olives, Green Olives: Mediterranean olives that contribute a briny and rich taste.

• Fresh Basil: Aromatic herb that adds a bright and fresh finish to the recipe.

• Chicken Stock: Flavorful liquid used to cook the orzo and add depth.
• Olive Oil, Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Smooth oils that provide richness and authentic Mediterranean flavor.
• Lemon Juice: Citrusy element that brings brightness and balances the dish.

How to Make Shrimp Orzo with Greek Flavors

Step 1: Prepare Sizzling Shrimp

Gather your shrimp and spice collection. Coat the shrimp thoroughly with a blend of smoked paprika, chili powder, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and salt.

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and drizzle olive oil. Carefully place shrimp in the pan, working in batches to avoid overcrowding.

Cook each batch for 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally until they transform into a beautiful pink color. Transfer the cooked shrimp to a separate plate.

Step 2: Create Creamy Orzo Base

Using the same skillet, pour in chicken stock and add orzo. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then reduce heat and cover.

Simmer for approximately 10 minutes, stirring periodically to prevent sticking. Keep an eye on the orzo’s texture, adding water if it looks too dry or starts to stick.

Step 3: Build Flavor Layers

• Halved cherry tomatoes
• Chopped sun-dried tomatoes
• Sliced Kalamata olives
• Green olives
• Feta cheese (save some for garnish)

Splash in lemon juice and extra virgin olive oil. Sprinkle additional smoked paprika and Italian seasoning.

Gently warm the mixture on low heat, stirring continuously. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Final Fusion and Serve

Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, warming them briefly. When serving, crown the dish with remaining feta cheese and freshly chopped basil.

Enjoy this Mediterranean masterpiece straight from the pan.

Greek Shrimp Orzo Tips That Help A Lot

• Avoid overcrowding the skillet to ensure each shrimp cooks evenly and develops a beautiful golden-brown color without steaming.
• Monitor orzo's moisture carefully, adding extra chicken stock or water if needed to achieve a creamy, perfectly cooked texture without dryness.
• Toast orzo briefly in olive oil before adding stock to develop a nutty, deeper taste that elevates the entire dish's complexity.
• Add feta off direct heat to prevent cheese from becoming grainy, allowing it to gently melt and blend with other ingredients.
• Sprinkle chopped basil just before serving to maintain its bright flavor and vibrant green color, adding a fresh Mediterranean touch.

Mediterranean Takes for Shrimp Orzo Fans

• Spicy Mediterranean Shrimp Orzo: Boost heat by adding extra red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, and a drizzle of harissa sauce for a fiery kick.
• Vegetarian Mediterranean Orzo: Replace shrimp with roasted chickpeas, grilled zucchini, and eggplant for a hearty plant-based version.
• Lemony Herb Shrimp Orzo: Enhance citrus notes by adding more lemon zest, fresh dill, and parsley for a bright, herbaceous profile.
• Seafood Fusion Orzo: Mix shrimp with calamari and mussels, incorporate saffron, and add a splash of white wine for a luxurious seafood experience.

Perfect Sides with Greek Shrimp Orzo Dinner

• Savor Mediterranean Flavor Companions
• Pair with Crisp White Wine: Select a zesty Greek assyrtiko or a refreshing sauvignon blanc that cuts through the dish's richness and complements the shrimp's delicate flavor.
• Match with Herbal Cocktail: Create a Mediterranean-inspired gin cocktail with fresh basil, cucumber, and a splash of lemon to echo the orzo's bright, herbaceous notes.
• Complement with Greek Salad: Prepare a light cucumber and tomato salad dressed with olive oil and oregano to enhance the dish's Mediterranean authenticity and provide a fresh, crunchy contrast.
• Serve with Crusty Bread: Offer warm, rustic sourdough or traditional Greek peasant bread to soak up the flavorful juices and add textural variety to the meal.

Best Way to Store Shrimp Orzo Pasta Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup and bacterial growth.

Transfer to freezer-safe containers, removing excess air. Freeze for maximum 2 months. Feta and shrimp may slightly change texture upon thawing.

Place portion in microwave-safe dish. Add splash of chicken stock to prevent drying. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until warmed through.

Warm in skillet over medium-low heat. Add small amount of olive oil or chicken stock. Stir gently to prevent orzo from sticking, ensuring even heating. Cook 3-4 minutes until steaming.

FAQs

• What makes the shrimp tender and flavorful?

The key is using a mix of spices like smoked paprika, chili powder, and Italian seasoning. Cooking the shrimp quickly on medium heat without overcrowding ensures they remain juicy and don’t become rubbery.

• Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just thaw frozen shrimp completely and pat dry before seasoning. Ensure they’re well-drained to prevent excess water in the skillet, which can make the shrimp steam instead of sear.

• How do I prevent the orzo from sticking to the pan?

Stir the orzo occasionally while cooking and use chicken stock for added flavor and to help prevent sticking. If it starts to stick, add a little more liquid and reduce heat.