Shrimp and Feta Orzo Skillet

Illustrated cover for Shrimp and Feta Orzo Skillet
Prep:10 minCook:25 minServings:3

A one-skillet orzo simmered in a garlicky tomato broth, finished with quick-cooked shrimp and crumbled feta. Bright with lemon and oregano, it comes together in about half an hour.

  • ¾ lb large shrimp — peeled and deveined
  • 2 tbsp olive oil — divided
  • 1 yellow onion — finely diced
  • 4 cloves garlic — minced
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 cup orzo
  • 1 cup canned diced tomatoes
  • 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • ¾ cup feta cheese — crumbled
  • 1 lemon
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley — chopped
  • salt
  • black pepper

Prep Tips

Directions

  1. Season the shrimp Pat ¾ lb large shrimp dry and season lightly with salt and black pepper. Set aside while you start the base.

  2. Soften the aromatics Heat 1 tbsp of the 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 yellow onion, finely diced, and cook until softened, about 4–5 minutes. Stir in 4 cloves garlic, minced, along with 1 tbsp tomato paste, 1 tsp dried oregano, and ¼ tsp red pepper flakes, and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

  3. Toast the orzo Add 1 cup orzo to the skillet and stir for about 1 minute to coat it in the oil and aromatics.

  4. Simmer the orzo Pour in 1 cup canned diced tomatoes and 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-low and cook, stirring often so the orzo doesn't stick, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, 10–12 minutes.

  5. Cook the shrimp Nestle ¾ lb large shrimp into the orzo and drizzle with the remaining 2 tbsp olive oil. Cover and cook until the shrimp are opaque and pink and curled into a loose C, 3–4 minutes, turning them once halfway through.

  6. Finish and serve Off the heat, scatter ¾ cup feta cheese over the top. Zest and juice 1 lemon into the skillet, then stir in 2 tbsp fresh parsley. Taste and adjust with salt and black pepper, and serve right away.