Greek Shrimp Orzo with Feta, Olives, and Tomatoes

When you’re craving something light, fresh, and packed with vibrant Mediterranean flavors, look no further than Greek Shrimp Orzo with Feta, Olives, and Tomatoes. This dish is like a little taste of summer on a plate—bright, savory, and oh-so-satisfying. The shrimp is perfectly tender, the orzo is cooked to just the right texture, and the feta adds that creamy, salty kick that perfectly complements the briny olives and juicy tomatoes. Toss in a drizzle of lemon and olive oil, and you’ve got yourself a bowl of Mediterranean goodness that’s both refreshing and filling. Trust me, you’re going to fall in love with this one!

Why You’ll Love Greek Shrimp Orzo with Feta, Olives, and Tomatoes

Mediterranean Flavors at Their Best

This dish brings all the classic flavors of the Mediterranean right to your table—zesty olives, tangy feta, fresh tomatoes, and juicy shrimp. If you love Greek food, this recipe will make your taste buds do a happy dance.

Light but Filling

It’s light enough for a warm day or a cozy weeknight, but it still fills you up. The orzo adds the perfect amount of carbs, while the shrimp provides a healthy dose of protein.

Quick and Easy

Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish is a perfect weeknight dinner. With minimal prep and easy steps, you’ll have a flavorful and nutritious meal on the table in no time.

Customizable

Love extra veggies? Add some cucumbers or spinach to the mix. Want more garlic or heat? Toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes. This dish is easy to adjust to your tastes.

Ingredients

For the Dish:

• Shrimp: Juicy, tender shrimp is the star of this dish. Make sure they’re peeled and deveined for convenience.
• Orzo: This tiny pasta is perfect for soaking up all the flavors of the dish while providing a nice, hearty base.
• Feta: Creamy, crumbly feta adds a rich, tangy flavor that makes every bite delicious.
• Olives: Kalamata olives bring that briny, salty kick that perfectly balances the other ingredients.
• Tomatoes: Fresh, juicy tomatoes (or cherry tomatoes) provide a burst of sweetness and color.
• Garlic: A few cloves of garlic bring an aromatic punch that enhances the whole dish.
• Lemon: For a zesty, refreshing pop of citrus that brightens the flavors.
• Fresh Parsley: A handful of fresh parsley adds a burst of freshness and a pop of color to finish off the dish.

For the Dressing:

• Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is the base of the dressing, lending its rich flavor to the dish.
• Red Wine Vinegar: A splash of red wine vinegar adds tang and depth.
• Dried Oregano: A key herb in Greek cooking, oregano adds an earthy, slightly floral flavor.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste, for bringing out the flavors of all the ingredients.

(Note: Full ingredient measurements can be found in the recipe card below.)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Orzo

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package directions, usually 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

While the orzo is cooking, heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Once done, remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic and Tomatoes

In the same skillet, add another splash of olive oil and sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Add the tomatoes and cook for about 5 minutes, until they begin to soften and release their juices. You want them to be slightly blistered but still hold their shape.

Step 4: Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.

Step 5: Assemble the Dish

In a large bowl, combine the cooked orzo, shrimp, sautéed tomatoes, olives, and feta. Drizzle the dressing over the top and toss everything together gently, making sure all the flavors meld together. If the dish seems a bit dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Top with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice for that bright, citrusy finish. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 380
Total Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 190mg
Sodium: 750mg
Total Carbohydrates: 32g
Dietary Fiber: 3g
Sugars: 3g
Protein: 26g

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

How to Serve Greek Shrimp Orzo with Feta, Olives, and Tomatoes

With a Side Salad

Pair this dish with a refreshing Greek salad made with cucumbers, red onions, and a tangy vinaigrette. It’s the perfect complement to the flavors of the dish.

With Warm Pita Bread

Serve with warm pita bread for dipping in the delicious sauce and soaking up any extra dressing. It’s a simple, satisfying addition to the meal.

As a Light Lunch or Dinner

This dish is light enough for lunch but hearty enough to serve as a dinner. It’s a great option for meal prepping too!

Additional Tips

Customize the Shrimp

Feel free to swap the shrimp for grilled chicken or even chickpeas if you’re looking for a meatless option. You could also try grilling the shrimp for an extra layer of smoky flavor.

Use Fresh Tomatoes

While you can use any tomatoes you have on hand, cherry tomatoes or grape tomatoes add extra sweetness and color to the dish.

Make It Ahead of Time

You can prep the orzo, shrimp, and veggies ahead of time and store them in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, just toss them with the dressing and feta.

Adjust the Dressing

If you like a tangier flavor, feel free to add a bit more vinegar. For a richer, more olive oil-forward flavor, add more olive oil to the dressing.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use whole wheat orzo?

A1: Yes! Whole wheat orzo would be a great option to add more fiber and nutrients to the dish while still keeping it delicious.

Q2: Can I make this dish vegetarian?

A2: Absolutely! Swap the shrimp for chickpeas or another plant-based protein for a satisfying vegetarian version.

Q3: How can I make this dish spicier?

A3: To add a little heat, toss in some red pepper flakes or diced fresh chili peppers to the tomatoes as they cook.

Q4: Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

A4: You can use pre-cooked shrimp, but be careful not to overcook them during the reheating process. Just toss them in at the end to warm through.

Q5: How do I store leftovers?

A5: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. This dish tastes great cold the next day, like a Mediterranean pasta salad.

Q6: Can I make this dish gluten-free?

A6: Yes, orzo can be found in gluten-free versions. Just swap in gluten-free orzo for the regular kind, and you’re good to go!

Q7: Can I add more vegetables?

A7: Definitely! Try adding cucumbers, roasted red peppers, or spinach for extra veggies and flavor.

Q8: Can I make the dressing in advance?

A8: Yes! You can make the dressing ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just give it a good shake before using it.

Q9: How do I make the dish more filling?

A9: To make it even more filling, you can add more shrimp or a side of roasted potatoes for a heartier meal.

Q10: Can I use store-bought feta?

A10: Yes! Store-bought feta works just fine, but if you want the creamiest feta, look for the kind that comes in brine.

Conclusion

This Greek Shrimp Orzo with Feta, Olives, and Tomatoes is the ultimate Mediterranean-inspired dish that comes together in a flash. It’s fresh, vibrant, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a light lunch. With the perfect balance of flavors from the shrimp, feta, olives, and tomatoes, it’s bound to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Try it out, and you’ll see just how easy it is to enjoy the tastes of the Mediterranean from your own kitchen!

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