Description
A delightful dish that combines succulent shrimp, creamy feta cheese, and fresh herbs tossed with orzo pasta, offering a refreshing flavor that is perfect for a light meal or hearty side.
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil (for shrimp preparation)
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 12 oz orzo pasta
- 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil (for orzo)
- Juice of 1 large lemon (approx. 3 tbsp)
- 1 clove garlic (finely grated)
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (crushed, optional)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1 cup baby spinach (roughly chopped)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped)
- 1/4 cup fresh dill (chopped)
- 4 oz feta cheese (crumbled)
- 2 tbsp capers (rinsed and drained, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the shrimp with olive oil, kosher salt, black pepper, dried oregano, smoked paprika, and lemon zest, ensuring each shrimp is well-coated.
- Spread the shrimp in a single layer on the baking sheet and roast for 8–10 minutes until opaque and cooked through.
- While the shrimp is roasting, boil salted water in a large pot, add orzo, and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the orzo and return to the pot. Stir in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and red pepper flakes.
- Gently fold in cherry tomatoes, spinach, parsley, and dill until well mixed.
- Mix in crumbled feta cheese and capers, if using.
- Top orzo with roasted shrimp and enjoy warm or at room temperature, garnished with herbs and lemon wedges.
Notes
Choose fresh shrimp for the best flavor. You can substitute orzo with other short pasta options and adjust herbs and seasonings to suit your taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean