on May 09, 2023, Updated Jul 27, 2024
Why You’ll Love Lemon Feta Orzo
This recipe is perfect topped with any protein, such as grilled chicken, kebabs, or 🦐 shrimp (which is what I use). I reserved a few tablespoons of my incredible dressing and tossed it with shrimp before throwing them on the grill. You can prepare this recipe for meal prep and make it the night before. Every bite transports me to my childhood in Crete, so I hope it makes it to your table too. Of course, as with all simple dishes, it’s important to use the best quality ingredients you can find and afford. A rich, buttery 🫒 olive oil, super fresh dill, feta purchased in brine (and never pre-crumbled), and fresh juice from plump lemons will make all the difference in this creamy, light, and bright Mediterranean pasta dish. Orzo is the perfect pasta shape here because it cooks quickly and, when combined with this simple dressing, it soaks up all the flavors and creates a silky, smooth texture that slides right off the spoon.
How to Prepare Lemon Feta Orzo
🔥 Cook orzo in salted water until al dente; salt the water after boiling, stir, and then add orzo. 🍋 While the orzo is cooking, make the dressing by adding olive oil, lemon juice/zest, dill, mustard, salt, and pepper in a glass measuring cup. Reserve some of the dressing for the shrimp if you’re using them. 🥣 Add cooked orzo to a large bowl. While warm, pour the dressing over the orzo and stir. Crumble in feta to taste and stir again. 🦐 Thaw, pat dry, and toss jumbo black tiger shrimp in reserved dressing. ♨️ Heat a pan over medium-high heat. Ensure it’s hot before adding the shrimp spaced apart from each other. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side until pink and curled. Avoid overcooking. ⭐ Toss cooked shrimp with lemon orzo. Enjoy!
Variations and Substitutions for Lemon Feta Orzo
Remember to cook with your heart! These variations and substitutions can be adjusted based on your personal preferences and dietary restrictions. Feel free to get creative and make the recipe to suit your taste!
Best Served With
Serve the orzo alongside a medley of grilled or roasted vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant. A simple green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette can add freshness and crunch to the meal. A side of crusty bread (like my no-knead peasant bread) or breadsticks is perfect for soaking up the flavorful dressing from the orzo. You could serve the orzo with a refreshing cucumber tzatziki sauce on the side.
Common Questions
