If you’ve been searching for a vibrant, comforting dish that packs a Mediterranean punch, you’re going to adore this Greek Shrimp Orzo with Feta, Olives, and Tomatoes Recipe. It’s a delightful combination of tender shrimp, nutty orzo pasta, briny olives, and the creamy tang of feta cheese that comes together quickly in under 30 minutes. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual weekend dinner, this recipe bursts with sunshine flavors and a satisfying texture that feels like a warm Greek hug on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is the secret to making this dish truly shine. Each element is simple yet plays a crucial role in delivering the perfect balance of flavors, colors, and textures that define Greek cuisine.
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined: The star protein that cooks quickly and stays juicy with a light seafood flavor.
- 1 cup orzo pasta: Tiny, rice-shaped pasta that soaks up the delicious juices and keeps the dish hearty.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Authentic Greek olive oil adds richness and a fruity aroma.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Butter melts into the orzo and shrimp for extra silkiness and depth.
- 1 small red onion, diced: Adds subtle sweetness and a bit of crunch when sautéed.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Essential to infuse that classic Mediterranean flavor.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Their juicy burst adds fresh acidity and vibrant color.
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced: These olives bring a salty, briny punch that balances the dish perfectly.
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese: Creamy and tangy, feta ties everything together with a luscious finish.
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice: Adds brightness and a hint of zest to lift the flavors.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Classic Greek herb that complements the shrimp and veggies beautifully.
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For a touch of heat that wakes up your palate.
- Salt and pepper to taste: To season perfectly.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a fresh herbal note and lovely green color.
How to Make Greek Shrimp Orzo with Feta, Olives, and Tomatoes Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Orzo to Tender Perfection
Start by boiling your orzo pasta according to the package instructions — usually about 8 to 10 minutes until al dente. This tiny pasta cooks quickly and will be the wonderful base that soaks up all the lovely flavors from the shrimp and veggies later. Once done, drain it well and set it aside so it’s ready for the final toss.
Step 2: Sauté Shrimp with a Touch of Spice
While the orzo cooks, heat olive oil and butter together in a large skillet over medium-high heat. This combination creates a rich cooking fat that gives your shrimp an irresistible golden sear. Season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and if you’re feeling adventurous, red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. Cook your shrimp about 2 to 3 minutes per side until they turn a gorgeous pink and are just opaque inside. Then, remove them and keep them warm — we’ll bring them back soon.
Step 3: Build the Flavor Base with Onion and Garlic
Using the same skillet (because who wants extra dishes?), add the diced red onion and sauté for a few minutes until soft and fragrant. The natural sweetness that emerges here is key to balancing the tang of feta and the crispness of the shrimp. Add minced garlic last and cook just until aromatic—about one minute—so it doesn’t get bitter.
Step 4: Add Juicy Tomatoes and Briny Olives
Next, toss in the halved cherry tomatoes and sliced Kalamata olives. Let them cook together for a couple of minutes until the tomatoes start to soften and release their juices. This step creates a beautiful sauce that clings to the orzo and shrimp, bringing in a lovely coastal flavor from the olives.
Step 5: Combine Orzo, Shrimp, and Seasonings
Pour the cooked orzo back into the skillet and give everything a good stir to meld those ingredients together. Return the sautéed shrimp to the pan gently so you don’t over-handle them. Now it’s time to brighten the dish – drizzle with fresh lemon juice and sprinkle dried oregano evenly over the top. Both add layers of fresh aromatic notes that make this dish so addictive.
Step 6: Finish with Feta and Fresh Parsley
Finally, crumble that beautiful feta cheese right over the top and scatter freshly chopped parsley. The feta delivers creamy, salty bursts in every bite, while parsley adds a fresh, herbal punch and vibrant green contrast. Serve your Greek Shrimp Orzo with Feta, Olives, and Tomatoes Recipe warm, and prepare to be transported to a sun-soaked Greek taverna!
How to Serve Greek Shrimp Orzo with Feta, Olives, and Tomatoes Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a classic topping to add freshness and visual appeal. For extra zing, a few lemon wedges on the side let guests squeeze in more citrus if desired. If you love some heat, offering a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes invites everyone to customize their bite.
Side Dishes
This dish shines on its own as a complete meal but also pairs wonderfully with a crisp Greek salad or a side of roasted vegetables. A basket of warm, crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the irresistible juices. For a lighter addition, a simple cucumber and dill salad brightens the meal even more.
Creative Ways to Present
To impress your guests, spoon the Greek Shrimp Orzo with Feta, Olives, and Tomatoes Recipe into individual shallow bowls and garnish each with an extra sprig of parsley and a lemon wheel. For parties, serve it family-style in a large, colorful ceramic dish that echoes Mediterranean charm — it makes for an inviting centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This recipe keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. The flavors actually deepen as they mingle overnight, making leftovers just as delightful the next day.
Freezing
If you want to freeze, remove the fresh herbs and crumbled feta beforehand, as these don’t freeze well. Freeze the shrimp and orzo mixture in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Gently reheat leftovers in a skillet over low heat to keep the shrimp tender, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water or broth if the dish feels dry. Avoid microwaving at high power to prevent rubbery shrimp and dried-out pasta.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp fully and pat them dry before cooking to get that nice sear and prevent excess water from steaming your shrimp.
Is orzo the only pasta option?
Orzo works best because of its small size and quick cooking time, but you can substitute with other small pasta shapes like couscous or even tiny shells if needed.
How spicy is this dish?
The red pepper flakes are optional, so you control the heat. Without them, the dish is mild and perfect for everyone, but a pinch adds a delightful warming bite.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Definitely! Skip the shrimp and toss in extra vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or artichokes. You might want to increase the feta and olives slightly to keep that rich flavor profile.
What’s the best wine to pair with this dish?
A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a Greek Assyrtiko complements the citrusy brightness and seafood beautifully without overpowering the delicate flavors.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about this Greek Shrimp Orzo with Feta, Olives, and Tomatoes Recipe that makes you feel like you’re dining somewhere by the Mediterranean coast. It’s quick, flavorful, and bursting with personality in every bite. I encourage you to gather these simple ingredients and whip it up—it’s bound to become one of your treasured go-to meals that brings a little sunshine to your table.
Print
Greek Shrimp Orzo with Feta, Olives, and Tomatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Greek
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Greek Shrimp Orzo is a vibrant and flavorful dish combining succulent shrimp, tender orzo pasta, juicy cherry tomatoes, briny Kalamata olives, and creamy feta cheese. Enhanced with fresh lemon juice and herbs, it offers a delightful Mediterranean-inspired meal ready in just 25 minutes, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Pasta
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup orzo pasta
Cooking Fats
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 small red onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Additional Flavorings
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Orzo: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the orzo pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Heat the Skillet: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil and butter together until melted and hot, preparing the base for sautéing.
- Cook the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet, seasoning with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Cook the shrimp for 2 to 3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove them from the skillet and set aside to prevent overcooking.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: Using the same skillet, add the diced red onion and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add Tomatoes and Olives: Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and sliced Kalamata olives. Cook for about 2 minutes until the tomatoes soften slightly and meld with the other flavors.
- Combine Orzo: Add the cooked orzo to the skillet and stir well to combine with the vegetables and olives, ensuring everything is evenly mixed.
- Return Shrimp to Skillet: Gently return the cooked shrimp back into the skillet with the orzo mixture. Toss everything together carefully to evenly distribute the shrimp without breaking them.
- Finish with Seasonings: Drizzle the fresh lemon juice over the dish, then sprinkle the dried oregano and crumbled feta cheese atop. Stir lightly to combine without melting the feta.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve warm to enjoy the full flavors of this Mediterranean-inspired dish.
Notes
- If you prefer a milder dish, omit the red pepper flakes.
- Use fresh or frozen shrimp as per availability; if frozen, thaw completely before cooking.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine while sautéing the onions and garlic.
- This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices.
- To make the dish gluten free, substitute orzo with a gluten-free small pasta or quinoa.
