Greek Shrimp with Orzo and Feta Recipe

Introduction

This One-Pan Greek Shrimp Orzo is a vibrant, flavor-packed meal ready in just 30 minutes. Juicy shrimp, tangy feta, and briny olives simmer with orzo and tomatoes for a fuss-free dinner. For more easy seafood ideas, try this Seafood Boil Ramen Recipe or the hearty Southern Fried Cabbage With Shrimp Sausage & Bacon Recipe.

Ingredients

This vibrant Greek Shrimp Orzo with Feta, Olives, and Tomatoes in 30 minutes comes together with bright, briny, and savory ingredients that promise a taste of the Mediterranean in every bite.

• 1.5 cups orzo
• 3 cups chicken stock or vegetable stock (or water)
• 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 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 6 oz feta cheese, crumbled or diced into small cubes
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice or lime juice, freshly squeezed
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Timing

Prep Time	10 minutes
Cook Time	20 minutes
Total Time	30 minutes

Context: This streamlined method for Greek Shrimp Orzo with Feta, Olives, and Tomatoes in 30 minutes is about 25% faster than similar one-pot recipes, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prep Your Ingredients

Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of dried oregano. This ensures a good sear. Meanwhile, finely chop the onion and garlic, and halve the cherry tomatoes. Having everything prepped makes this 30-minute Greek Shrimp Orzo with Feta, Olives, and Tomatoes come together seamlessly.

Step 2 — Sear the Shrimp

Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat with a tablespoon of olive oil. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for just 1–2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. They don’t need to be fully cooked through yet. Remove to a plate immediately to prevent overcooking.

Step 3 — Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil if needed. Sauté the chopped onion until softened, about 3 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. This builds the flavor base for your orzo.

Step 4 — Toast the Orzo

Stir in the dry orzo pasta, toasting it in the oil for about 1 minute. This gives the orzo a slightly nutty flavor and helps it absorb the broth more effectively later.

Step 5 — Simmer the Orzo

Pour in chicken or vegetable broth and add the halved tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is al dente and has absorbed most of the liquid.

Step 6 — Finish and Serve

Return the shrimp to the pan along with the Kalamata olives and crumbled feta cheese. Gently stir everything together and cook for another 1–2 minutes just to warm through and let the feta soften slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with fresh dill or parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.

Nutritional Information

Calories	~520 kcal
Protein	~32 g
Carbohydrates	~45 g
Fat	~22 g
Fiber	~4 g
Sodium	~980 mg

Note: These are approximate per-serving values for this Greek Shrimp Orzo with Feta, Olives, and Tomatoes in 30 minutes, based on typical ingredients and serving size. Actual values can vary depending on specific brands and quantities used.

Healthier Alternatives

This versatile Greek Shrimp Orzo with Feta, Olives, and Tomatoes in 30 minutes can be easily adapted to fit different dietary needs or preferences. Here are some practical swaps to try.

• Protein Swap: Chicken or Chickpeas — For a different protein, use diced chicken breast (cook through before adding tomatoes) or a can of rinsed chickpeas for a hearty vegetarian version. Both absorb the Mediterranean flavors beautifully.
• Lower-Carb Option: Cauliflower Rice — Replace the orzo with riced cauliflower. Add it in the last 5 minutes of cooking to keep it tender-crisp and avoid sogginess, creating a lighter, low-carb meal.
• Dairy-Free/Vegan: Omit Feta or Use Vegan Alternative — Simply leave out the feta for a dairy-free dish, or crumble a firm, brined vegan cheese alternative at the end. The olives and lemon provide plenty of savory, tangy flavor.
• Gluten-Free: Use GF Orzo or Rice — Many brands offer gluten-free orzo made from corn or rice. Alternatively, an equal amount of cooked rice or quinoa stirred in at the end works perfectly for a gluten-free Greek shrimp bowl.
• Lower-Sodium: Reduced-Sodium Olives & Broth — Opt for low-sodium vegetable broth and rinse your canned olives thoroughly. You can also use fresh tomatoes instead of canned to better control the salt content in your Greek Shrimp Orzo.
• Extra Veggies: Spinach or Zucchini — Boost the nutrition by stirring in a few handfuls of fresh spinach just before serving, or add diced zucchini with the tomatoes for more volume and vitamins.
• Herb Variation: Dill or Mint — While oregano is classic, fresh dill or mint added at the end provides a bright, refreshing twist to the flavor profile of this 30-minute dish.
• Spice Level: Red Pepper Flakes — Add a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking the garlic for a subtle heat that complements the tomatoes and feta in this Greek Shrimp Orzo.

Serving Suggestions

This vibrant Greek Shrimp Orzo with Feta, Olives, and Tomatoes in 30 minutes is a complete meal, but a few thoughtful pairings and presentation tips can elevate it from a simple dinner to a memorable occasion.

• Perfect Pairings: Serve with a crisp, chilled glass of Assyrtiko or a dry rosé to complement the briny olives and tangy feta. For a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon is wonderfully refreshing.
• For a Light Meal: A simple side of cucumber salad or a handful of peppery arugula dressed with lemon and olive oil adds a fresh, crunchy contrast.
• For a Heartier Spread: This dish shines as part of a Mediterranean mezze. Offer warm pita bread, a bowl of tzatziki for dipping, and some dolmades (stuffed grape leaves).
• Ideal Occasions: It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a relaxed summer patio meal, or a casual dinner party where you want impressive flavor without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Plating Tips: Garnish generously with extra crumbled feta, a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil, and a sprinkle of fresh dill or oregano just before serving. Serve directly from the skillet for a rustic, family-style presentation.
• Make it a Feast: For a larger gathering, double the recipe and pair it with grilled lemon-herb chicken or lamb chops.
• Leftover Love: Enjoy any leftovers cold the next day as a flavorful pasta salad, making it a great option for packed lunches.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Overcooking the shrimp, making them rubbery. Fix: Add them last and cook just until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes.
• Mistake: Using pre-crumbled feta that lacks flavor and melts away. Fix: Buy a block of high-quality Greek feta and crumble it yourself for better texture and taste.
• Mistake: Not toasting the orzo before simmering. Fix: Sauté the dry orzo in olive oil for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden to develop a nutty flavor.
• Mistake: Adding the feta too early, causing it to dissolve completely. Fix: Stir in most of the crumbled feta off the heat at the very end, letting residual warmth soften it.
• Mistake: Using watery, out-of-season tomatoes. Fix: Opt for ripe cherry or grape tomatoes, or quality canned diced tomatoes for a richer, more consistent sauce base.
• Mistake: Forgetting to season the cooking liquid for the orzo. Fix: Salt your broth or water well; the orzo absorbs it, becoming flavorful from the inside out.
• Mistake: Crowding the pan when sautéing aromatics and shrimp. Fix: Use a wide, deep skillet to ensure even cooking and proper reduction of the sauce.
• Mistake: Adding briny olives too early, making the entire dish overly salty. Fix: Fold in pitted Kalamata olives at the end to preserve their distinct, bright brininess.
• Mistake: Skipping the final brightening touch. Fix: Finish the dish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle of fresh herbs like dill or parsley.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Cool the Greek Shrimp Orzo with Feta, Olives, and Tomatoes completely. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in a sealed, freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Note that the texture of the orzo may soften slightly upon thawing.
• Reheat: Gently reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of water or broth, or in the microwave, stirring occasionally, until steaming hot throughout. Ensure shrimp reach an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety.

For best quality, add fresh herbs like dill or parsley just before serving reheated portions.

Conclusion

This easy Greek Shrimp Orzo with Feta, Olives, and Tomatoes is a vibrant, satisfying meal ready in just 30 minutes. If you love this combo of flavors, you might also enjoy our Spaghetti Squash with Chicken, Tomatoes, Spinach, and Feta Recipe. Give this recipe a try and let us know what you think in the comments!

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FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this Greek Shrimp Orzo?

Yes, frozen shrimp work perfectly. Thaw them completely in cold water and pat them very dry before cooking to ensure they sear properly and don’t release excess moisture into the dish. This keeps your Greek Shrimp Orzo with Feta, Olives, and Tomatoes in 30 minutes on schedule.

What can I substitute for feta cheese?

If you don’t have feta, crumbled goat cheese or ricotta salata are good alternatives that still offer a tangy, creamy element. For a dairy-free version, a sprinkle of nutritional yeast or a dollop of vegan cream cheese can provide a similar savory note to the orzo.

How do I prevent the orzo from becoming mushy?

Cook the orzo just until al dente, as it will continue to absorb liquid from the tomatoes and shrimp juices off the heat. Use the exact amount of broth or water listed and avoid overcooking the shrimp, which can make the entire dish watery. This ensures your Greek Shrimp Orzo has the perfect texture.