Description
Savory Greek Shrimp Orzo dances with Mediterranean flavors, combining succulent shrimp, tangy feta, and ripe tomatoes. Mediterranean comfort embraces palates with zesty herbs and olive-studded elegance, promising a delightful culinary journey you’ll crave again.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 1.5 lb raw shrimp, peeled and deveined (large, about 15–20 count per pound)
Pasta and Grains:
- 1.5 cups orzo
Liquid:
- 3 cups chicken stock (or vegetable stock or water)
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice (or lime juice), freshly squeezed
Vegetables and Herbs:
- 8 oz cherry tomatoes (red and yellow, sliced in half)
- 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes in olive oil, chopped
- 1/3 cup kalamata olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup green olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
Cheese:
- 6 oz feta cheese (crumbled or diced into small cubes)
Oils and Seasonings:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon additional Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the shrimp by tossing with a vibrant blend of smoked paprika, chili powder, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and salt, ensuring each piece is evenly coated.
- Heat olive oil in a large high-sided skillet over medium heat. Carefully add shrimp in batches to prevent overcrowding, cooking for 3-4 minutes until they transform to a beautiful pink hue. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, combine orzo with chicken stock. Bring to a rolling boil, then reduce heat and simmer covered for approximately 10 minutes. Stir periodically to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Introduce a medley of halved cherry tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and green olives to the orzo. Incorporate most of the feta cheese, reserving some for garnish.
- Drizzle with lemon juice and extra virgin olive oil. Sprinkle additional smoked paprika and Italian seasoning. Gently reheat on low, stirring to meld flavors and prevent scorching.
- Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, warming them through without overcooking. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Plate the dish, topping with reserved feta cheese and freshly chopped basil for a burst of color and fresh Mediterranean flavor.
Notes
- Experiment with different spice blends like Cajun or Mediterranean za’atar to create unique flavor profiles that match your taste preferences.
- Replace shrimp with chicken, tofu, or white fish for versatile meal adaptations that cater to different dietary needs and protein choices.
- Ensure shrimp are cooked just until pink to prevent rubbery texture, maintaining tender and juicy meat that melts in your mouth.
- Prepare components separately and combine just before serving, keeping orzo and shrimp separately to maintain optimal texture and prevent soggy results.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Greek
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 427 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 711 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 34 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 29 g
- Cholesterol: 152 mg