If you’re craving a dish that brings the sun-soaked flavors of the Mediterranean right to your dinner table, then you’ll fall head over heels for this Greek Shrimp Orzo with Feta, Olives, and Tomatoes Recipe. It’s a vibrant, colorful celebration of fresh ingredients that come together in a light yet satisfying meal. Tender, garlicky shrimp mingle with perfect bites of orzo pasta, juicy cherry tomatoes burst with sweetness, tangy Kalamata olives add a salty pop, and creamy feta ties everything with its luxurious richness. Whether you’re lighting up a weeknight dinner or impressing friends at a casual gathering, this dish feels like a holiday on a plate every single time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for a handful of simple but essential ingredients that each play a starring role. From the plump shrimp providing protein, to the fresh herbs and lemon boosting brightness, every item adds flavor, texture, or color to make this dish truly sing.
- 1 cup orzo pasta: This tiny rice-shaped pasta cooks quickly and soaks up all the delicious flavors perfectly.
- 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined): Tender, juicy, and full of natural sweetness, shrimp is the heart of this dish.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided): Adds a silky richness and helps cook the shrimp to perfection.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses the dish with a warm, aromatic depth that you can’t resist.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: The classic Greek herb that brings that unmistakable Mediterranean flair.
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): A touch of heat to add some gentle excitement to your taste buds.
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes (halved): Bursting with juicy sweetness, they add freshness and vibrant color.
- â…“ cup Kalamata olives (sliced): Salty and briny, these olives add a punch of authentic Greek flavor.
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese: Creamy, tangy, and sprinkled on top for just the right finishing touch.
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice: Brightens the entire dish and balances the richness.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: A fresh herbal note that lifts all the flavors.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that bring everything together.
How to Make Greek Shrimp Orzo with Feta, Olives, and Tomatoes Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Orzo
Start by boiling the orzo in salted water until it’s just al dente. The slightly firm texture is perfect for tossing with the juicy shrimp and fresh ingredients later. Once done, drain it and set it aside so it’s ready to soak up all those Mediterranean flavors.
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the shrimp. Season them well with salt, pepper, dried oregano, and if you want a kick, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. Cook them for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. The aroma at this point is irresistible. Remove the shrimp and set them aside on a plate.
Step 3: Cook Garlic and Tomatoes
In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for just about a minute until fragrant—don’t let it burn or it will turn bitter. Then add the halved cherry tomatoes, cooking them until they soften and start releasing their sweet juices, about 3 to 4 minutes. This step brings out a luscious burst of flavor that coats the orzo beautifully.
Step 4: Combine Orzo, Olives, and Lemon
Add the cooked orzo pasta back to the skillet, along with the sliced Kalamata olives and fresh lemon juice. Toss gently to combine all the components, letting their flavors marry together while the pan is still warm. This layer of briny and bright notes is what makes this recipe truly sing.
Step 5: Return Shrimp and Finish
Pop the shrimp back into the skillet and cook everything together for another minute just to let the shrimp warm up again. Remove the pan from the heat and sprinkle the top with crumbled feta cheese and chopped parsley. The feta’s creamy tang perfectly balances the salty olives and the freshness of the herbs.
How to Serve Greek Shrimp Orzo with Feta, Olives, and Tomatoes Recipe
Garnishes
To make this dish pop even more on the table, add a few lemon wedges on the side for guests to squeeze fresh juice over their serving. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a handful of additional fresh parsley leaves also adds a lovely finishing touch that’s as inviting as it is delicious.
Side Dishes
This Greek Shrimp Orzo with Feta, Olives, and Tomatoes Recipe is a star all on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or some warm pita bread alongside adds dimension. A light cucumber and tomato Greek salad or some roasted veggies also complement it beautifully without overpowering those vibrant Mediterranean flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this dish in shallow bowls to showcase all its colorful ingredients, or pile it on a large platter for family-style dining. You could even scoop it into hollowed-out bell peppers or tomatoes for a fresh, fun twist. No matter how you present it, this recipe never fails to impress with its bright colors and tempting aromas.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, just transfer the dish to an airtight container and refrigerate. It keeps well for up to 2 days, making it a perfect way to enjoy the vibrant flavors again without extra work. The orzo soaks up the juices overnight, so the taste often deepens by the next day.
Freezing
While this dish is best fresh, you can freeze leftovers if needed. Place them in a freezer-safe container and store for up to 1 month. Keep in mind the texture of the shrimp and orzo can change slightly after freezing, so it’s ideal to thaw gently in the fridge before reheating to preserve flavor and texture.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave with a splash of water or olive oil to revive that fresh, saucy consistency. Avoid overheating or the shrimp may become rubbery. Add a sprinkling of fresh herbs or extra feta after warming to refresh the flavors.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the pan. Frozen shrimp work just as well and make the recipe even more convenient for busy nights.
Is orzo necessary, or can I substitute another grain?
You can definitely substitute with rice, couscous, or even quinoa if you prefer. Orzo’s unique shape and texture do absorb the flavors wonderfully, but the recipe is quite flexible to suit your pantry or dietary needs.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Of course! Simply omit the shrimp and add extra cherry tomatoes, olives, or even some sautéed mushrooms for added heartiness. The feta and orzo combination still shines brightly without the seafood.
How spicy is this dish?
The red pepper flakes are optional and add just a gentle warmth, not overpowering heat. You can adjust or skip them altogether based on your spice tolerance for a perfectly balanced taste.
What wine pairs best with this dish?
A crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light, citrusy Assyrtiko complements the fresh shrimp and bright lemon notes beautifully. These wines enhance the Mediterranean flavors without overshadowing the dish.
Final Thoughts
This Greek Shrimp Orzo with Feta, Olives, and Tomatoes Recipe easily becomes a go-to whenever you want a meal that’s fresh, flavorful, and effortless. The perfect harmony of juicy shrimp, tangy feta, briny olives, and bright tomatoes feels like a Mediterranean getaway in every bite. So gather your ingredients, invite loved ones, and get ready to enjoy a dish that’s just as fun to make as it is to eat. Trust me, this recipe will quickly become one of your favorites to share again and again.
Print
Greek Shrimp Orzo with Feta, Olives, and Tomatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Greek, Mediterranean
Description
Greek Shrimp Orzo with Feta, Olives, and Tomatoes is a vibrant, Mediterranean-inspired dish bursting with fresh flavors. Tender shrimp are sautéed with garlic and herbs, then tossed with orzo pasta, juicy cherry tomatoes, briny Kalamata olives, and creamy feta cheese. It’s an easy, one-pan meal that’s both light and satisfying—perfect for weeknights or casual entertaining.
Ingredients
Orzo Pasta
- 1 cup orzo pasta
Shrimp & Marinade
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Vegetables & Add-ins
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- â…“ cup Kalamata olives, sliced
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Cook Orzo: Cook the orzo in salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add shrimp, season with salt, pepper, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until shrimp are pink and opaque. Transfer to a plate.
- Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes: In the same skillet, add remaining olive oil and sauté minced garlic for 1 minute until fragrant. Add halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 3–4 minutes until they start to soften.
- Combine Ingredients: Stir in the cooked orzo, Kalamata olives, and lemon juice into the skillet, tossing gently to combine.
- Return Shrimp and Finish: Return the cooked shrimp to the pan and cook for 1 more minute just to warm through.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese and chopped fresh parsley. Serve warm, with extra lemon wedges if desired.
Notes
- For extra richness, add a drizzle of olive oil or a pat of butter before serving.
- You can substitute orzo with rice or couscous if preferred.
- This dish is best served fresh but can be enjoyed cold as a pasta salad the next day.
