Shrimp and Orzo Skillet Dinner

This Mediterranean-inspired one-pan wonder combines tender shrimp, toasted orzo pasta, and bright, fresh herbs for a meal that's as impressive as it is efficient. Perfect as a summer seafood recipe, this dish balances convenience with culinary excellence, proving that quick doesn't mean compromising on flavor or nutrition.

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Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Mediterranean

Keyword: Shrimp Orzo Skillet, Summer Seafood Recipe, Quick Dinner, One-Pan Meal

Prep Time: 10

Cook Time: 18

Total Time: 28

Servings: servings

Calories: 425kcal

Equipment

Large Skillet

Ingredients

1 pound large shrimp peeled and deveined (21-25 count)
1½ cups uncooked orzo pasta
3 tablespoons olive oil divided
4 cloves garlic minced
1 medium lemon zested and juiced
½ cup cherry tomatoes halved
½ cup feta cheese crumbled
¼ cup fresh parsley chopped
2 tablespoons fresh dill chopped
2½ cups chicken or seafood stock
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

Season shrimp with salt and pepper. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add 1½ tablespoons olive oil. When shimmering, add shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1-2 minutes per side until pink and just opaque. Remove to a plate and cover loosely with foil to keep warm.
In the same skillet, add remaining olive oil. Add the orzo and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until lightly golden.
Add minced garlic to the toasted orzo and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the stock, lemon zest (reserving a pinch for garnish), and red pepper flakes if using. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to maintain a simmer. Cook uncovered for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and most liquid is absorbed.
Stir in cherry tomatoes and cook for 1 minute. Return shrimp to the skillet along with half the herbs and lemon juice. Gently fold everything together until warmed through, about 1-2 minutes.
Remove from heat and top with crumbled feta cheese and remaining fresh herbs. Serve immediately.

Notes

For perfect shrimp texture, remember they continue cooking after removal from heat. Slightly undercooking them at the initial stage prevents rubbery results when they return to the skillet later.

Substitution options:

Swap shrimp for diced chicken thighs or cubed firm white fish
Try Israeli couscous or small pasta shapes instead of orzo
Use goat cheese in place of feta for a creamier texture
Substitute spinach or kale for added vegetables

Nutrition

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