Name: Lemon Feta Orzo Roasted Shrimp
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 cup orzo pasta; 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 teaspoon lemon zest; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Light, fresh, and filled with bold Mediterranean flavor, this Lemon Feta Orzo Roasted Shrimp dish is your answer to a bright dinner that feels fancy without the fuss. Roasting shrimp with lemon and garlic creates an irresistible aroma while the orzo soaks up all that tangy, savory goodness. The creamy crumbles of feta scattered throughout bring richness to every bite.

What makes this recipe so delightful is how fast and fuss-free it is. The orzo cooks while your shrimp roasts, and just like that, you have a hearty yet light meal perfect for busy weeknights, cozy date nights, or when you want to impress guests with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Feta Orzo Roasted Shrimp

This dish combines the best of everything: citrusy brightness, salty feta, perfectly cooked shrimp, and comforting orzo. It comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a go-to weeknight dinner. Plus, it’s versatile—you can serve it warm, room temperature, or even chilled as a pasta salad the next day.

What Kind of Shrimp Should I Use?

Go for large or jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined. You can use fresh or frozen—just make sure they’re thoroughly thawed before roasting. Keeping the tails on can make for a prettier presentation, but remove them if you prefer easier eating. And if you’re in a pinch, pre-cooked shrimp can work too, just add them at the last minute to avoid overcooking.

Ingredients for the Lemon Feta Orzo Roasted Shrimp

What makes this recipe so magical is the combination of bright, zesty, and savory ingredients that harmonize beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:

Orzo pasta: A rice-shaped pasta that serves as the comforting base.
Large shrimp: Peeled and deveined, this is the protein star of the dish.
Lemon juice and zest: Adds vibrant, fresh flavor.
Garlic cloves: Minced to infuse depth and aroma.
Olive oil: Helps everything roast beautifully and adds richness.
Crumbled feta cheese: Salty, creamy, and briny—it elevates the orzo.
Fresh parsley: Brightens the final dish with herbal notes.
Salt and pepper: Essential to balance and enhance the flavors.

How To Make the Lemon Feta Orzo Roasted Shrimp

Step 1: Prepare the Orzo

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the orzo according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a bit of the cooking water.

Step 2: Season the Shrimp

In a mixing bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Let it marinate for 10-15 minutes if time allows.

Step 3: Roast the Shrimp

Preheat your oven to 425°F. Arrange the shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast for 7-9 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink, opaque, and slightly golden around the edges.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

In a large bowl, combine the cooked orzo, roasted shrimp, and any pan juices. Gently stir in crumbled feta and fresh parsley. Add a splash of reserved orzo water if needed to loosen the mix.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve immediately while warm, or chill and serve later as a refreshing pasta salad. Either way, it’s going to be a hit!

How to Serve and Store This Mediterranean Dish

This recipe yields enough to comfortably feed four people. It shines as a main course but can also work as a hearty side dish alongside grilled veggies or crusty bread. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm it in a skillet with a splash of water or broth, or enjoy it cold straight from the fridge.

What to Serve With Lemon Feta Orzo Roasted Shrimp?

Roasted Asparagus

Tender stalks tossed in olive oil and roasted until caramelized bring a crisp, green bite.

Greek Salad

Tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and olives dressed in olive oil and oregano make a zesty side.

Warm Pita Bread

Perfect for scooping up the orzo or dipping into hummus on the side.

Garlic Roasted Potatoes

Golden and crispy, these pair beautifully with the tangy shrimp and feta.

Chilled White Wine

A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the citrusy notes in the dish.

Cucumber Yogurt Sauce

Cool, creamy, and herbaceous, this adds a lovely contrast to the warm shrimp.

Sauteed Spinach

Quickly wilted with garlic, spinach balances the meal with earthy greens.

Grilled Zucchini

Lightly charred rounds of zucchini bring smokiness and softness to the plate.

Want More Seafood Dinner Ideas?

If you love this Lemon Feta Orzo Roasted Shrimp, check out these flavorful creations:

Flavorful Jerk Shrimp Tacos with Pineapple Salsa and Crema for a tropical twist.
Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta when you want rich, bold flavors.
Zesty Lime Shrimp and Avocado Salad for a fresh and healthy option.
Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi if you’re craving a restaurant classic.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can revisit it anytime you need a bright, Mediterranean-inspired meal.

Let me know in the comments how you customized yours! Did you add cherry tomatoes or spinach? Maybe swapped the feta for goat cheese?

Check out more refreshing and healthy Mediterranean dishes and weeknight winners on Zoe Recipes on Pinterest and get inspired to try something new.

Conclusion

Lemon Feta Orzo Roasted Shrimp is a celebration of bold, simple ingredients that come together effortlessly. It’s the kind of dish you’ll make once and then find yourself craving over and over. Whether you serve it warm or cold, for dinner or lunch, this recipe is one to keep close in your kitchen rotation.