Mediterranean Shrimp Orzo with Lemon and Herbs

Shrimp orzo has quickly become my go-to dish when I’m looking for something simple and bursting with flavor. It’s a one-skillet wonder that saves on cleanup and doesn’t skimp on taste. This recipe makes any meal feel special in our home, yet it’s incredibly easy to pull together. Whether you’re winding down from a busy day or looking to impress with minimal fuss, this shrimp orzo will have everyone at the table asking for seconds. Join me as I share how this delightful dish can be your next mealtime hero, bringing a touch of Mediterranean flair straight to your kitchen with just one pan and a handful of fresh ingredients.

Ingredients You Need for Shrimp Orzo

• Shrimp: I prefer fresh shrimp for their superior texture and flavor, but frozen shrimp can also work well. Ensure they’re fully thawed, patted dry, and cleaned before use. 
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil (4 tablespoons, divided): Used both for marinating the shrimp and sautéing the aromatics.
• Aromatic Base: Shallots’ mild, sweet flavor and garlic’s unmistakable aroma create a depth of flavor essential to Mediterranean cooking.
• Lemon (1 whole zest): The zest of lemon adds a bright, citrusy punch, cutting through the richness of the olive oil and feta and highlighting the seafood’s freshness.
• Dried Oregano and fresh thyme: Offers earthy, slightly bitter notes that are quintessential to Mediterranean cuisine.
• Red Pepper Flakes (Pinch):  Start with a pinch and adjust to your taste buds, adding a gentle kick without overpowering the dish.
• Dry White Wine: Used to deglaze the pan, the wine introduces acidity and a subtle fruitiness, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
• Shrimp Broth, Chicken Stock, or Water: Shrimp broth adds a deeper seafood flavor, while chicken stock is a more neutral option. Water can also be used as a simple base. This liquid cooks the orzo, infusing it with whichever flavor base you choose.
• Tomato Paste: I appreciate tomato paste for its rich flavor and the vibrant color it lends to the dish. It introduces a concentrated burst of tomato sweetness and acidity.
• Orzo: This rice-shaped pasta absorbs flavors from the broth and spices, making each bite deliciously cohesive.
• Green Peas frozen or fresh): Add a pop of sweetness and color, enhancing the dish’s visual appeal and nutritional value.
• Crumbled Feta Cheese: Offers a tangy, salty contrast to the dish’s rich and savory flavors, adding a creamy texture.
• Toasted Pine Nuts: Provide a nutty crunch, adding another layer of texture and flavor.
• Fresh Parsley (for garnish): Brings a final flourish of freshness and color, tying all the flavors with its light, peppery notes.

Variations to Make It Your Own:

One of the joys of cooking is making a recipe your own, and this shrimp orzo is the perfect canvas for your culinary creativity. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Vegetable Swap: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables to suit your taste or to use what you have on hand. Spinach is a fantastic alternative, wilting beautifully into the dish. Chopped asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers also make excellent additions, each with unique flavors and textures.
• Protein Options: Shrimp stars are in this dish, but if you’re not in the mood for seafood, try cubed chicken breast, sausage slices, or even chunks of firm tofu for a vegetarian twist. Adjust the cooking times to ensure your protein is cooked through and tender.
• Herbs and Cheese: The recipe calls for thyme and optional feta cheese, but the world of herbs and cheeses is vast and varied. Consider swapping in basil or oregano for a different herbal note. Or use goat cheese or Parmesan for a different cheesy tang and texture. Each herb and cheese brings its unique character, allowing you to customize the dish.

Homemade Shrimp Broth: A Simple Tip

I recommend buying shrimp with the shells on for added flavor-stainable cooking. You get fresher shrimp this way, and those shells hold the key to a deliciously simple homemade shrimp broth. Here’s how to do it:

• Prepare the Shrimp: Peel the shrimp and set the shells aside for your broth. This step adds a few minutes to your prep time, but the flavor payoff is worth it.
• Make the Broth: In a pot, combine the shrimp shells with about 4 cups of water (enough to cover), a squeeze of lemon, and any aromatic scraps you have on hand (think onion ends, carrot peels, or a few sprigs of parsley). Bring it to a boil, reduce the heat, and let it simmer for about 20-30 minutes.
• Strain and Use: After simmering, strain your broth through a fine mesh sieve to remove the shells and any large pieces of aromatics. You’re left with a beautifully flavored shrimp broth that will elevate any seafood dish, including our shrimp orzo.

This simple homemade broth not only maximizes the flavors in your dish but also aligns with a waste-not ethos by using the shrimp shells you would otherwise discard.

Storing and Reheating Shrimp Orzo:

• To Store: Allow the shrimp orzo to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For the best quality, separate toppings like fresh herbs or additional cheese before storing.
• To Reheat: Gently reheat the shrimp orzo in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to help loosen the orzo and prevent it from drying out. Stir occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warm.

For the best experience, add fresh herbs or cheese after reheating to preserve their flavors and textures.