Lemon Feta Orzo Shrimp (Print View)

Orzo, roasted shrimp, feta, and herbs blend for refreshing Mediterranean-inspired flavor packed with vibrant textures.

# Components:

→ Shrimp

01 - 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
02 - 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
03 - 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
04 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
05 - 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
06 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
07 - Zest of 1 lemon

→ Orzo & Dressing

08 - 12 ounces orzo pasta
09 - 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
10 - Juice of 1 large lemon (about 3 tablespoons)
11 - 1 garlic clove, finely grated
12 - 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

→ Vegetables & Add-ins

13 - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
14 - 1 cup baby spinach, roughly chopped
15 - 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
16 - 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
17 - 4 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
18 - 2 tablespoons capers, rinsed and drained

# Directions:

01 - Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - Combine shrimp with olive oil, salt, pepper, oregano, smoked paprika, and lemon zest. Arrange evenly on the lined baking sheet.
03 - Roast shrimp for 8 to 10 minutes, until opaque and cooked through. Remove from oven and set aside.
04 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook orzo according to package directions for al dente texture. Drain and return to pot.
05 - While orzo is hot, stir in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and crushed red pepper flakes to evenly coat.
06 - Fold in cherry tomatoes, baby spinach, parsley, and dill. Stir until spinach begins to wilt.
07 - Gently fold in feta cheese and capers, if using.
08 - Top orzo mixture with roasted shrimp and serve warm or at room temperature. Garnish with extra herbs and lemon wedges as desired.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Uses easy-to-find pantry and fresh ingredients
  • Ready in just over half an hour
  • Brings out beautiful spring and summer flavors
  • Great for making ahead or packing as a picnic dish
  • The fresh lemon and mix of herbs keep every bite lively and delicious
02 -
  • Full of lean protein from shrimp and high in fiber from orzo and vegetables
  • Fresh herbs and lemon create a lively profile without heavy sauces
  • Easy to scale up or double for gatherings
03 -
  • Always zest the lemon before you juice it so you do not miss out on those aromatic oils
  • Do not overcook the shrimp or they will become tough pull them from the oven as soon as they turn pink and curl
  • Toss the herbs in just before serving to keep their color and brightness vibrant