Description
Mediterranean Shrimp Orzo Skillet
Ingredients
1 cup orzo pasta
12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/3 cup Kalamata olives
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp dried oregano
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of 1/2 lemon
Directions
Cook the orzo: Boil orzo in salted water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Sauté shrimp: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season shrimp with salt, pepper, and oregano. Cook 2 minutes per side or until pink. Remove from skillet.
Cook tomatoes and garlic: In the same skillet, add remaining olive oil. Sauté garlic and cherry tomatoes until tomatoes start to soften, about 3-4 minutes.
Combine and heat: Lower heat to medium. Add cooked orzo, olives, red pepper flakes (if using), and shrimp back into the skillet. Stir well to combine.
Add finishing touches: Remove from heat. Stir in lemon juice, sprinkle with feta cheese and parsley.
Serve and enjoy: Serve warm with a drizzle of olive oil and extra parsley if desired.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 320 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a foolproof meal. First, gather all ingredients. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the orzo until al dente. While it cooks, pat the shrimp dry and season generously. In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium-high. Add shrimp in a single layer, cooking undisturbed for 2 minutes until seared, then flip and cook until opaque. Transfer to a plate. Reduce heat to medium, add the remaining oil, and sauté the garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the halved cherry tomatoes, cut-side down, and cook for 3-4 minutes until they blister and release juices. Return the cooked orzo and shrimp to the skillet, adding the olives and red pepper flakes. Toss everything to combine and heat through for 1-2 minutes. Off the heat, finish with lemon juice, then top with feta and parsley.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile skillet is a complete meal on its own. For a more substantial spread, serve it alongside a simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette. Warm, crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious pan juices. To complement the Mediterranean flavors, a glass of crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully. For a casual gathering, serve the orzo directly from the skillet at the table.
How-to Summary
In summary: Cook orzo. Sauté seasoned shrimp and set aside. Sauté garlic and tomatoes in the same pan. Combine everything—orzo, shrimp, tomatoes, olives, and spices—back in the skillet. Finish with lemon juice, feta, and fresh parsley. A simple, one-pan dinner ready in under 30 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes. Thaw frozen shrimp completely in the refrigerator overnight or under cold running water. Pat them very dry before seasoning to ensure a good sear.
What can I substitute for orzo? Small pasta like ditalini or pastina works well. For a gluten-free option, use rice-shaped pasta or even cooked quinoa, added at the combining stage.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. The microwave works but may soften the shrimp slightly.
Is the feta cheese necessary? While feta adds a classic tangy saltiness, you can omit it for a dairy-free version or substitute with dairy-free cheese. A sprinkle of nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor.
Can I add other vegetables? Absolutely. Sliced bell peppers, spinach, or artichoke hearts are excellent additions. Add hearty vegetables with the tomatoes, and delicate greens like spinach at the end to wilt.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcooking the shrimp, as they become rubbery. Cook just until pink and opaque. Do not skip drying the shrimp before cooking; moisture prevents proper searing. Ensure your skillet is hot before adding the shrimp to get a nice color. Finally, add the feta cheese off the heat to prevent it from melting completely and losing its texture.
Conclusion
This Mediterranean Shrimp Orzo Skillet is the epitome of a quick, flavorful, and satisfying weeknight dinner. It masterfully combines simple, fresh ingredients into a vibrant one-pan meal that feels both elegant and effortless. With the detailed guide, tips, and FAQs provided, you’re equipped to avoid common pitfalls and adapt the recipe to your taste. It’s a perfect foundation for exploring Mediterranean flavors any night of the week.