Mediterranean Shrimp Orzo is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines tender shrimp with orzo pasta, fresh vegetables, and a zesty Mediterranean-inspired dressing. This dish is perfect for a light dinner or a satisfying lunch!
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Timing
Making the Mediterranean Shrimp Orzo takes about 10 minutes for preparation and 15 minutes for cooking.
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Orzo
- Boil Orzo: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
- Heat Oil: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil.
- Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet, season with salt, pepper, and dried oregano. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Remove from heat.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
- Mix Everything: In a large bowl, combine the cooked orzo, sautéed shrimp, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese.
- Dress the Salad: Drizzle with fresh lemon juice and toss everything together until well combined.
Step 4: Serve
- Plate the Dish: Serve the Mediterranean shrimp orzo warm or at room temperature, garnished with chopped parsley.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional content of the Mediterranean Shrimp Orzo (per serving, based on 4 servings):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450 |
| Protein | 30g |
| Fat | 20g |
| Carbohydrates | 40g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sugar | 3g |
Tips for Customization
- Add More Vegetables: Include bell peppers, spinach, or artichokes for added nutrition and flavor.
- Make it Spicy: Add crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Use Different Proteins: Substitute shrimp with chicken or chickpeas for a different flavor profile.
Conclusion
Mediterranean Shrimp Orzo is a delicious and refreshing dish that highlights the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a picnic, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy this delightful recipe!
Mediterranean Shrimp Orzo Recipe
Prep Time:
10 minutes
Cook Time:
15 minutes
Total Time:
25 minutes
Ingredients
- • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- • 1 cup orzo pasta
- • 2 tablespoons olive oil
- • 3 cloves garlic, minced
- • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- • 1 cup cucumber, diced
- • 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- • 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- • 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- • Salt and pepper to taste
- • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Boil Orzo: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Heat Oil: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil.
- Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet, season with salt, pepper, and dried oregano. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Remove from heat.
- Mix Everything: In a large bowl, combine the cooked orzo, sautéed shrimp, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese.
- Dress the Salad: Drizzle with fresh lemon juice and toss everything together until well combined.
- Plate the Dish: Serve the Mediterranean shrimp orzo warm or at room temperature, garnished with chopped parsley.
Step 1: Cook the Orzo
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Step 4: Serve
