Zesty Lemon Feta Shrimp with Creamy Orzo Delight 🍋🧀🍤
1. Introduction
If you’re searching for a seafood pasta dish that combines bright citrus flavors with savory feta, this shrimp orzo recipe is perfect. It’s a quick shrimp dinner packed with zesty lemon, creamy textures, and tender shrimp that come together effortlessly. Whether you’re cooking for weeknights or impressing guests, this lemon feta pasta promises a flavorful experience in every bite.
2. Ingredients for Zesty Lemon Feta Shrimp with Creamy Orzo
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup heavy cream or coconut cream (for a dairy-free option)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Lemon Feta Pasta with Shrimp
Preparing the Orzo Pasta
Cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Cooking the Shrimp
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp, season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Creating the Lemon Feta Sauce
In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add lemon juice and zest, then stir in heavy cream. Simmer for 2 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in the feta cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce.
Combining Everything
Return the cooked shrimp and orzo to the skillet, tossing gently to coat everything with the lemon feta sauce. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
4. Storage Tips for Leftover Lemon Feta Shrimp and Orzo
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce if needed. For the best texture, avoid freezing as the creamy sauce may separate when thawed.
5. Serving Suggestions for the Perfect Seafood Pasta Dish
Serve this seafood pasta dish alongside a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal. Consider pairing it with a glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water infused with lemon slices for an added fresh touch.
Want to explore more seafood pasta options or quick dinner ideas? Check out our collection for inspiration!
6. Frequently Asked Questions about Lemon Feta Pasta & Shrimp
Can I substitute the shrimp with chicken or scallops?
Absolutely! This recipe works wonderfully with chicken tenders or scallops. Adjust cooking times accordingly, ensuring the meat is cooked through.
Is this dish suitable for a gluten-free diet?
To make it gluten-free, substitute the orzo with gluten-free pasta options available in stores.
How long does it take to prepare this lemon feta pasta?
This quick shrimp dinner takes approximately 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Use a dairy-free cream alternative and omit or replace the feta cheese with a plant-based cheese or nutritional yeast for a similar flavor.
7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe
- Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master – Make chopping garlic and parsley easier and quicker, saving you time in preparation.
- CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set – Provides reliable pans for cooking shrimp and preparing sauces efficiently.
- Ninja SLUSHi Pro RapidChill Drink Maker – Keeps your drinks chilled while you cook this flavorful seafood pasta dish.
Investing in quality kitchen tools can dramatically improve your cooking experience and help you create perfect dishes every time.
8. Conclusion
Experience a burst of bright, savory flavors with this shrimp orzo recipe. The combination of zesty lemon, creamy feta, and tender shrimp creates a seafood pasta dish that’s both quick and delicious. Perfect for busy weeknights or when entertaining guests, this lemon feta pasta is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Give it a try today and enjoy a healthy, satisfying meal!
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Zesty Lemon Feta Shrimp with Creamy Orzo Delight
A flavorful and easy lemon feta shrimp orzo dish packed with fresh herbs and vibrant flavors, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil or parsley
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Add lemon juice and zest, stirring to deglaze the pan.
- Reduce heat to low, return shrimp to skillet, and add cooked orzo, cherry tomatoes, and feta cheese. Toss gently to combine and heat through.
- Garnish with chopped basil or parsley before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
- Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Gluten-Free (if using gluten-free orzo)
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 470 Kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 65g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 185mg