Mediterranean Orzo With Shrimp: A Bright, Healthy One-Pan Dinner
A vibrant bowl of juicy shrimp, tangy feta, and fresh herbs that transforms dinner.
Mediterranean Orzo With Shrimp: A Fresh Take on Weeknight Dinner
If you’re craving a dinner that’s fast, fresh, and full of vibrant Mediterranean flavors, this orzo with shrimp fits the bill perfectly. Mediterranean cuisine is known for its healthy fats, bold herbs, and the use of fresh produce. This recipe brings all those wonderful elements together in a single bowl, making it an ideal choice for a weeknight meal, picnic, or family gathering.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: Simple enough for busy nights—ready in under an hour.
- Balanced Nutrition: Includes lean protein, healthy fats, and fiber.
- Versatile & Customizable: Easily adapts to what you have at home.
- Bold Mediterranean Flavors: Feta, olives, oregano, and fresh basil bring classic character to every bite.
Essential Ingredients for Mediterranean Orzo with Shrimp
This dish showcases a range of Mediterranean staples that make it satisfying and lively. Each ingredient plays a specific role, contributing texture, flavor, or substance.
- Orzo (12 oz): A small pasta shape resembling rice; cooks quickly and absorbs flavors beautifully.
- Shrimp (1.5 lb): Large, peeled, and deveined—booted with a quick marinade for a juicy finish.
- Olive Oil (1/2 cup): Provides richness and is the base for the dressing.
- White Wine Vinegar (1/4 cup): Delivers acidity and brightness to balance the dish.
- Cherry Tomatoes (2 cups, halved): Offer color, sweetness, and moisture.
- Kalamata Olives (1 cup, pitted, halved): Lend salinity and authentic Mediterranean flair.
- Feta Cheese (1 cup, crumbled): Adds creaminess and tang, with extra for garnish.
- Fresh Basil (1/2 cup, chopped): Plus more for garnish—imparts aroma and freshness.
- Chickpeas (15 oz can, drained & rinsed): For plant-based protein and fiber.
- Red Onion (1/2 small, diced): Provides peppery crunch and a burst of color.
- Dried Oregano (1 tsp): Enhances the Mediterranean aroma.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Delivers savory undertones.
- Kosher Salt & Black Pepper: Season to taste and balance flavors.
Step-by-Step Directions
The process for this dish is straightforward and can be broken down into a handful of clear steps. The recipe is actionable and approachable, even for beginners.
1. Cook the Orzo
- Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a boil.
- Add the orzo and cook according to package directions for “al dente.”
- Drain and rinse under cold water until cool.
- Transfer to a large mixing bowl and set aside.
2. Make the Dressing
- In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, white wine vinegar, dried oregano, garlic, salt, and several grinds of black pepper.
- This will create a tangy, herb-forward vinaigrette that infuses the entire salad.
3. Assemble the Orzo Salad Base
- Add cherry tomatoes, kalamata olives, feta cheese, chopped basil, chickpeas, and diced red onion to the cooked orzo.
- Drizzle in all but 2 tablespoons of the prepared dressing and toss to combine.
- Refrigerate the mixture for at least one hour (or overnight) to allow flavors to meld.
4. Marinate the Shrimp
- Toss the shrimp in a bowl with the reserved 2 tablespoons of dressing.
- Let shrimp marinate for about 10 minutes while wooden skewers soak in water (prevents burning when broiling).
5. Broil the Shrimp
- Preheat your broiler.
- Thread the shrimp onto soaked wooden skewers, season with salt.
- Arrange on a baking sheet and broil for 2 minutes, flip, then broil for another 1 minute until pink and cooked through.
6. Finish and Serve
- Top the orzo salad with cooked shrimp straight from the broiler.
- Garnish with extra feta crumbles and more fresh basil.
- Serve immediately as a main course or chilled for later.
Nutrition and Health Benefits
This recipe offers a well-rounded profile of nutrients:
- Lean Protein: Shrimp and chickpeas provide muscle-building amino acids.
- Healthy Fats: Olive oil delivers monounsaturated fats vital for heart health.
- Fiber: Chickpeas, vegetables, and orzo contribute soluble and insoluble fiber for digestion.
- Vitamins & Minerals: Tomatoes and basil provide vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants.
What others are reading
Tips, Variations and Substitutions
This dish is forgiving and adapts well to different tastes, dietary needs, and pantry limitations.
- Add more vegetables: Cucumbers, artichoke hearts, roasted red peppers, or spinach work well.
- Change the protein: Substitute grilled chicken, salmon, or tofu for the shrimp.
- Cheese options: Try goat cheese, Parmesan shavings, or omit cheese for dairy-free.
- Herbs: Parsley or mint can complement (or replace) basil.
- Whole wheat orzo: For extra fiber and heartiness.
Serving Suggestions
Mediterranean Orzo with Shrimp is versatile and pairs well with:
- Grilled chicken or lamb kebabs
- Roasted vegetables (zucchini, eggplant, peppers)
- Simple green salad or tzatziki
- Crusty bread or pita
- Perfect for picnics and potlucks: Chill and transport easily.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I prepare Mediterranean Orzo with Shrimp ahead of time?
Yes! The orzo salad base actually improves in flavor after resting in the fridge for an hour or overnight. Simply broil the shrimp fresh before serving, or broil in advance and chill for a cold pasta salad.
What can I use instead of orzo?
Try small pasta shapes like ditalini, pearl couscous, or even quinoa for a gluten-free version.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely. Omit the shrimp and add extra chickpeas, grilled halloumi, or tofu for plant-based protein.
How do I prevent overcooking shrimp under the broiler?
Broil shrimp briefly—about 2 minutes per side—just until pink and opaque. Overcooking can lead to rubbery texture, so keep a close watch.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, the salad base stores very well. Keep shrimp and garnishes separate until ready to eat for best texture.
Storage and Leftover Tips
- Refrigeration: Store salad and shrimp in airtight containers; consume within 2 days.
- No freezing: Best enjoyed fresh; freezing changes pasta and shrimp texture.
- Reheating: Gently warm shrimp separately or enjoy cold.
Nutritional Table
| Nutrient | Estimated Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approx. 430 |
| Protein | 32g |
| Fat | 18g |
| Carbohydrates | 49g |
| Fiber | 7g |
| Sodium | 650mg |
Values are approximate and may vary depending on portion size and ingredient adjustments.
Pro Chef Tips
- Cool the orzo properly: Rinsing in cold water stops cooking and prevents stickiness.
- Use fresh basil for garnish: Adds real Mediterranean aroma.
- Marinate shrimp briefly: Too long and texture can change; 10-15 minutes is perfect.
- Thread shrimp flat on skewers: Ensures even broiling.
Popular Variations
- Add diced cucumber for crispness.
- Mix in sun-dried tomatoes for more depth.
- Toss in arugula or baby spinach for greens.
- Sprinkle with pine nuts or slivered almonds for crunch.
- Swap lemon juice for vinegar for a different acidity profile.
Related Mediterranean Orzo Recipes
- Lemon Chicken-Orzo Soup
- Mediterranean Orzo Salad (vegetarian)
- Italian Orzo Tuna Salad
- Beef-Vegetable Kebabs with Orzo
- Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Orzo
Printable Mediterranean Orzo With Shrimp Recipe Card
Ingredients:
- 12 oz orzo
- 1.5 lb large shrimp, peeled & deveined
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup white wine vinegar
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Kosher salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup kalamata olives, pitted & halved
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 15-oz can chickpeas, drained & rinsed
- 1/2 small red onion, diced
Directions:
- Cook orzo in salted water until al dente. Drain, rinse, and cool in a bowl.
- Whisk olive oil, vinegar, oregano, garlic, salt, and pepper for dressing.
- Combine orzo with tomatoes, olives, feta, basil, chickpeas, and onion. Toss with most of the dressing; chill.
- Marinate shrimp in reserved dressing for 10 min; skewer while soaking wood sticks. Broil 2 min/side until pink.
- Top salad with shrimp, extra feta, and basil; serve chilled or at room temperature.
FAQs
Are there gluten-free options for the pasta?
Try gluten-free orzo or substitute with quinoa for similar texture.
Can I use pre-cooked, frozen shrimp?
Pre-cooked shrimp can be used in a pinch—just thaw and add to the salad. For best results, broil fresh or thawed raw shrimp as directed.
What wine pairs best with Mediterranean Orzo with Shrimp?
A crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, complements the bright, herby flavors.
Is this salad served hot or cold?
It’s delicious chilled—but shrimp can be added fresh from the broiler for a warm contrast.
Mediterranean Orzo With Shrimp: Final Thoughts
This Mediterranean Orzo with Shrimp brings together the best of quick cooking, bold flavors, and versatility all in one healthy, irresistible dish. Whether you’re making it for busy weeknights, festive summer gatherings, or meal prep, it guarantees satisfaction and a true taste of the Mediterranean in every bite.
References
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a32209490/mediterranean-orzo-with-shrimp/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a11963/mediterranean-orzo-salad/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/meals-menus/g32208896/orzo-recipes/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/meals-menus/g39817499/shrimp-pasta-recipes/
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