Name: Greek Shrimp with Orzo and Feta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1/2 cup kalamata olives, pitted and halved; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional); Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1 cup orzo pasta; 2 cups low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth; 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese

Jump to Recipe· 3.8 from 9 reviews

If you’re craving a dish that bursts with Mediterranean sunshine and fresh, vibrant flavors, this Greek Shrimp with Orzo and Feta Recipe is an absolute must-try. It combines plump, succulent shrimp with tender orzo pasta, tangy feta, and a mix of herbs and tomatoes all cooked in one pan for a hassle-free, delicious meal. You’ll love how the combination of textures and bright flavors comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress friends with minimal fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white plate is filled with a layered dish starting with a base of light golden orzo pasta mixed with bits of dark purple and green olives, small chunks of white cheese, and bright red and yellow cherry tomatoes halved and scattered throughout. On top, there are several medium-sized cooked shrimp with a golden-brown and slightly charred surface, sprinkled with green chopped herbs. The colors include the orange-pink shrimp, pale yellow pasta, vibrant vegetables, and cheese bits. The plate sits on a white marbled surface with a sprig of rosemary partially visible nearby. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Greek Shrimp with Orzo and Feta Recipe lies in its simple but essential ingredients. Each component plays a starring role, whether it’s the juicy shrimp, the creamy feta, or the bright tomatoes that add color and acidity. Together, they create a perfectly balanced dish that feels both hearty and refreshing.

Shrimp (1 pound, peeled and deveined): Choose fresh or thawed shrimp for the best succulent bite.
Orzo (1 cup): This tiny pasta soaks up all the delicious flavors, giving a creamy, risotto-like texture.
Cherry tomatoes (1 cup, halved): They add bursts of sweetness and a vibrant red pop in every forkful.
Feta cheese (1/2 cup, crumbled): Tangy and creamy, it’s the perfect finishing touch.
Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Essential for adding depth and warmth to the dish.
Olive oil (3 tablespoons): Rich and fruity, it helps bring everything together.
Fresh lemon juice (2 tablespoons): Adds brightness and a zing that enhances all the flavors.
Dried oregano (1 teaspoon): Classic Greek herb that gives an authentic earthy note.
Chicken or vegetable broth (2 1/2 cups): Used to cook the orzo and shrimp, infusing extra flavor.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning to taste.
Fresh parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped): Adds a fresh herbal finish and color contrast.

How to Make Greek Shrimp with Orzo and Feta Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Shrimp

Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and half of the oregano. Cook the shrimp for about 2 minutes on each side until just pink and opaque. Remove them from the pan and set aside—this quick sauté seals in their juicy flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Garlic and Tomatoes

In the same pan, add the remaining olive oil followed by the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, but be careful not to burn it! Then toss in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook until they start to soften and blister, releasing their natural sweetness and creating a luscious base for the orzo.

Step 3: Add Orzo and Broth

Pour the dry orzo into the pan and stir it with the tomatoes and garlic. Toast the orzo for a minute or two, letting it get a little nutty in flavor before adding the chicken or vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, uncovered, for about 10 minutes or until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

Step 4: Combine Shrimp and Finish Cooking

Return the cooked shrimp to the pan, stirring gently to combine. Let everything cook together for an additional 2 to 3 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and the shrimp to warm through without overcooking.

Step 5: Add Feta, Lemon, and Parsley

Turn off the heat and sprinkle crumbled feta cheese and fresh parsley over the dish. Squeeze fresh lemon juice on top for a bright, zesty finish. Give it a gentle stir to combine the creamy feta with the orzo and shrimp, resulting in a dreamy, satisfying texture.

How to Serve Greek Shrimp with Orzo and Feta Recipe

Garnishes

For an extra pop of flavor and color, scatter some additional crumbled feta, chopped fresh dill or mint, and a few lemon wedges. These small touches elevate the dish’s visual appeal and add fresh brightness that complements the hearty orzo and shrimp perfectly.

Side Dishes

This meal is wonderfully versatile and pairs beautifully with light sides like a crisp cucumber salad, roasted vegetables, or warm pita bread to soak up every last bit of that flavorful sauce. You could also serve it alongside a simple Greek salad for a full Mediterranean experience.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, serve the shrimp and orzo in shallow bowls, letting the colorful components shine. Alternatively, layer it in glass containers for a vibrant lunchbox option or pile it on a large platter for family-style dining. Adding edible flowers or microgreens on top can also make the presentation wonderfully special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen as they rest, making it a perfect next-day meal that heats up nicely without losing texture.

Freezing

While this dish tastes best fresh, you can freeze leftovers for up to 1 month. Keep them in a freezer-safe container and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Reheating

Reheat the Greek Shrimp with Orzo and Feta Recipe on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if it seems dry. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts to avoid overcooking the shrimp and feta.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely, pat them dry, and remove excess water before cooking to ensure they sear nicely and don’t steam in the pan.

Is orzo a type of rice?

Orzo is actually a type of pasta shaped like grains of rice. It cooks quickly and has a slightly chewy texture that works perfectly in this Greek Shrimp with Orzo and Feta Recipe.

Can I substitute feta with another cheese?

While feta is traditional and adds a distinctive tang, you could use goat cheese or ricotta salata for a milder flavor. Avoid cheeses that melt completely to maintain the dish’s textural contrast.

How spicy is this dish?

This recipe is mild and focuses on fresh, bright flavors. If you love a little heat, feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking the garlic and tomatoes.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

You can make a vegetarian version by omitting the shrimp and adding hearty vegetables like zucchini or eggplant. Use vegetable broth, and the orzo and feta will still make a fulfilling meal.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to bring a delightful taste of the Mediterranean to your dinner table with minimal effort, this Greek Shrimp with Orzo and Feta Recipe is a fantastic choice. Its ease of preparation, bright flavors, and satisfying textures come together in a dish that’s both elegant and comforting. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this one-pan wonder with your loved ones as much as I do!