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Shrimp and Feta Orzo

A vibrant dish featuring tender shrimp, creamy feta, and zesty lemon, delivering a well-balanced flavor and stable texture.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Mediterranean, Seafood
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Base Ingredients
  • 3/4 pound orzo pasta Use good quality orzo for the best texture.
  • 2 pounds shrimp (16 to 18 count) Peeled and deveined for convenience.
Seasoning and Aromatics
  • 1/3 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice About 2 lemons.
  • 1 shallot minced Adds a mild onion flavor.
  • 1/2 cup minced scallions Use both white and green parts.
  • 1 cup chopped fresh dill Fresh dill enhances the dish's flavor.
  • 1 cup chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley Adds freshness.
  • 1 hothouse cucumber unpeeled, seeded, medium-diced For a refreshing crunch.
Final Touch
  • 3/4 pound good feta cheese Large diced for easy mixing.
  • 1 tablespoon kosher salt For boiling water and seasoning.
  • to taste teaspoon freshly ground black pepper Adjust seasoning as desired.
  • 1/4 cup good olive oil For flavoring the shrimp and pasta.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F.
  2. Fill a large pot with water, add 1 tablespoon of salt, and a splash of oil, and bring to a boil.
  3. Add the orzo and simmer for 9 to 11 minutes until al dente.
  4. Drain the orzo and pour it into a large bowl.
Combine Ingredients
  1. Whisk together the lemon juice, 1/4 cup olive oil, 2 teaspoons salt, and 1 teaspoon pepper.
  2. Pour the mixture over the hot orzo and stir well.
  3. Meanwhile, place the shrimp on a sheet pan, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and minced shallot.
  4. Toss to combine and spread the shrimp in a single layer.
Cooking
  1. Roast the shrimp for 5 to 6 minutes until cooked through.
  2. Add the roasted shrimp to the orzo bowl along with the scallions, dill, parsley, cucumber, 2 teaspoons salt, and 1 teaspoon pepper.
  3. Toss well and then add the feta, stirring carefully.
  4. Set aside at room temperature for 1 hour to allow flavors to blend or refrigerate overnight.

Notes

Prepare all components before final assembly and keep the base texture controlled before adding delicate ingredients. Store leftovers in sealed containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.