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Lemon Orzo with Shrimp, Feta & Spinach Recipe

ByJulia
Jump to Recipe·5 from 11 reviews

Oh, you’re going to love this Lemon Orzo with Shrimp, Feta & Spinach Recipe — it’s one of those dishes I keep coming back to when I want something bright, fresh, and just a little bit special. The combination of tangy lemon, salty feta, tender shrimp, and vibrant spinach tossed with creamy orzo is truly a magic mix that feels fancy enough for guests but easy enough for a weeknight dinner.

I first stumbled onto this recipe when I had a sudden craving for something light but packed with flavor, and it’s become a staple in my kitchen. Whether you’re whipping it up after work or preparing for a casual weekend lunch, this Lemon Orzo with Shrimp, Feta & Spinach Recipe cooks up quickly and fills your kitchen with a wonderful aroma that feels like sunshine on a plate.

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Why This Recipe Works

  • Balanced Flavors: The tartness of lemon cuts through the richness of butter and feta, creating a perfectly balanced bite every time.
  • Quick & Easy: It comes together in about 25 minutes, ideal for busy weeknights without sacrificing taste.
  • One-Pan Wonder: Using just one pan for sautéing shrimp and cooking orzo means minimal cleanup — a big win in my book.
  • Versatile Ingredients: Shrimp, spinach, and feta are common staples you can easily swap or add to for personalization.
A close-up view of a white bowl filled with a dish made of yellow orzo pasta, light pink shrimp with black pepper specks, and bright green spinach leaves. There are small white cheese cubes scattered throughout, mixed with translucent cooked onion pieces. A wooden spoon resting on the bowl scoops some of the orzo, shrimp, spinach, cheese, and onions, showing their textures clearly. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with a yellow cloth partially visible near the bottom. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7 this …

Ingredients & Why They Work

This Lemon Orzo with Shrimp, Feta & Spinach Recipe shines because every ingredient plays a starring role. From the delicate shrimp to the zing of lemon and creaminess of feta, these components come together for a harmonious, crave-worthy dish. When shopping, picking fresh shrimp and good-quality feta makes a noticeable difference.

  • Butter: Adds a rich base flavor and helps create that velvety texture for the orzo.
  • Shrimp: Fresh or thawed frozen shrimp work well; just be sure they’re deveined and peeled for easiest prep.
  • Garlic: Fresh minced adds brightness and depth to the sauté.
  • Onion: Finely diced to melt into the orzo, building a subtle sweetness.
  • Orzo: This tiny pasta cooks quickly and soaks up flavors beautifully.
  • Chicken Broth: Cooking the orzo in broth rather than water layers in savory goodness.
  • Lemon Zest and Juice: The real star for that fresh, vibrant citrus punch.
  • Spinach: Adds a healthy pop of green that wilts perfectly into the warm orzo.
  • Feta: Its crumbly, tangy saltiness contrasts so nicely with the sweet shrimp and lemon.
  • Salt and Pepper: Season to taste and lift all the flavors.
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Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Tweak to Your Taste

I love playing around with this Lemon Orzo with Shrimp, Feta & Spinach Recipe depending on what’s in season or my mood. Feel free to mix it up a bit—you’ll find it surprisingly adaptable and still delicious when customized.

  • Variation: Swap shrimp for chicken or scallops for a different protein — I once made this with grilled chicken, and it was fantastic for a hearty lunch.
  • Dietary Swap: Use vegetable broth for a pescatarian or lighter version, and consider reducing or swapping butter for olive oil.
  • Extra Veggies: Toss in cherry tomatoes or peas for more color and freshness. I often add sun-dried tomatoes for an extra tangy twist.
  • Herbs: Add fresh dill or parsley on top for a bright, herbal finish that pairs beautifully with the lemon.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Lemon Orzo with Shrimp, Feta & Spinach Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Shrimp to Perfection

Start by melting 1 tablespoon of butter in a large pan over medium-high heat. While it’s heating, season your shrimp generously with salt and pepper — this seasoning really boosts their natural flavor. Let the shrimp cook for about 2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Don’t overcook them here; you want them tender, not rubbery. Once done, remove the shrimp and set them aside on a plate to keep warm.

Step 2: Build Flavor with Onions and Garlic

In the same pan, add your remaining tablespoon of butter, then toss in the minced garlic and finely diced onion. Cook this mixture for about 3 to 4 minutes until the onions soften and become translucent. This is where your dish starts to develop a deep, savory base, so don’t rush it.

Step 3: Cook the Orzo in Broth

Now add the orzo straight into the pan, stirring it with the onions and garlic to toast it lightly for a minute if you like that nutty flavor. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir the orzo every few minutes to keep it from sticking — that patience pays off with creamy, perfectly cooked pasta. It usually takes about 10 to 12 minutes for all the liquid to absorb and the orzo to get tender.

Step 4: Brighten it Up with Lemon and Spinach

Once the orzo is creamy and most liquid is absorbed, stir in the lemon juice and zest. This gives the dish its refreshing tang that wakes up every bite. Next, add in the fresh spinach and stir gently just until it wilts down — you want it vibrant, not mushy.

Step 5: Finish with Shrimp and Feta

Finally, fold the cooked shrimp and cubed feta into the orzo mixture. The feta melts slightly from the warmth but still holds its crumbly texture, creating little pockets of salinity to complement the lemon and shrimp beautifully. Give everything a gentle stir and serve this right away while everything is warm and fresh.

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Pro Tips for Making Lemon Orzo with Shrimp, Feta & Spinach Recipe

  • Don’t Overcook Shrimp: Remove them as soon as they turn pink to keep them tender and juicy.
  • Stir the Orzo Often: This prevents sticking and encourages a creamier texture as the starch releases.
  • Use Fresh Lemon Zest: It adds more vibrant citrus aroma than bottled lemon juice alone.
  • Add Spinach Last: This keeps it from overcooking and keeps its bright color and nutrients intact.

How to Serve Lemon Orzo with Shrimp, Feta & Spinach Recipe

A large white bowl filled with a dish of yellow orzo pasta mixed with pink shrimp, dark green spinach leaves, and white cubes of cheese, all sprinkled with black pepper. The orzo is the main base layer, with shrimp and spinach spread evenly on top, along with the cheese cubes. A wooden spoon with a white twisted handle rests in the bowl, showing the contents inside. Around the bowl, there are whole yellow lemons and lemon slices on a white marbled surface, as well as a small white bowl filled with more cheese cubes and a folded yellow cloth. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

I usually finish this dish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or dill and a few extra crumbles of feta on top. Sometimes a quick drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a couple of lemon wedges on the side really takes it to the next level. These simple garnishes add freshness and a little visual pop that makes serving even more inviting.

Side Dishes

This Lemon Orzo with Shrimp, Feta & Spinach Recipe is wonderful on its own, but I like adding a crisp green salad or roasted veggies on the side for extra balance. Garlic bread or warm pita slices complement the Mediterranean vibe nicely and help scoop up those creamy orzo bits.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, I sometimes serve this in individual shallow bowls topped with edible flowers or a sprinkle of za’atar for a Middle Eastern twist. It also works beautifully plated under a bed of fresh arugula tossed lightly with lemon vinaigrette — perfect for a light, elegant dinner party.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The flavors deepen overnight, though the spinach softens a bit. Stir gently before reheating to bring it all back together.

Freezing

Freezing this recipe isn’t my top choice because the texture of shrimp and feta changes after thawing, but if needed, freeze in a sealed container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.

Reheating

I reheat leftovers on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the orzo and prevent drying out. The microwave works okay for a quick option — just cover loosely and heat in short bursts, stirring in between.

FAQs

  1. Can I use frozen shrimp in the Lemon Orzo with Shrimp, Feta & Spinach Recipe?

    Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp fully and pat them dry before cooking, which helps them sauté nicely without steaming. Season them well and cook as instructed for tender results.

  2. Is this Lemon Orzo with Shrimp, Feta & Spinach Recipe gluten-free?

    Traditional orzo is made from wheat, so it’s not gluten-free. However, you can substitute with gluten-free rice pasta or quinoa for a similar texture.

  3. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

    Yes! Simply leave out the shrimp and boost the veggies instead — mushrooms or artichoke hearts work great. Use vegetable broth and keep the feta for that lovely creaminess.

  4. How do I know when the orzo is perfectly cooked?

    Orzo should be tender but still slightly firm to the bite, about 10 to 12 minutes of simmering in broth. Taste a few grains towards the end and watch for the liquid to mostly absorb, creating a creamy consistency.

Final Thoughts

This Lemon Orzo with Shrimp, Feta & Spinach Recipe holds a special place in my kitchen because it’s a perfect balance of fresh, comforting, and quick — all the things I want after a long day. I think you’ll find it’s not only delicious but also wonderfully adaptable to your tweaks and tastes. Next time you’re looking for a fuss-free dinner with a pop of brightness, this recipe’s going to be your go-to, trust me.

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Lemon Orzo with Shrimp, Feta & Spinach Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 5 from 11 reviews
  • Author: Julia
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean
  • Diet: Low Lactose
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Description

This Lemon Orzo with Shrimp, Feta & Spinach is a vibrant, creamy, and flavorful dish that combines tender shrimp with zesty lemon orzo, fresh spinach, and salty feta cheese. Perfect for a quick and elegant weeknight meal, it delivers a delightful balance of textures and bright Mediterranean flavors.

Ingredients

Units Scale

Protein

  • 12 raw shrimp deveined

Dairy

  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2/3 cup feta cut into small cubes

Produce

  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 onion finely diced
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 2 cups spinach

Pantry

  • 1/4 tsp salt (for shrimp)
  • 1/4 tsp pepper (for shrimp)
  • 1 cup orzo
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • Salt and pepper to taste (for finishing)

Instructions

  1. Cook the shrimp: In a large pan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Season the shrimp generously with ¼ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon pepper. Add shrimp to the pan and sauté for 2 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from the pan and set aside on a plate.
  2. Sauté garlic and onion: In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter. Once melted, add minced garlic and diced onion. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes until the onions soften and become translucent.
  3. Cook the orzo: Add the orzo and chicken broth to the pan with the cooked onions and garlic. Bring to a simmer and cook for 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo absorbs most of the liquid and becomes creamy.
  4. Add lemon and spinach: Stir in the lemon juice and lemon zest into the creamy orzo. Add the spinach and mix gently until it wilts into the pasta.
  5. Combine and serve: Return the cooked shrimp to the pan and add the cubed feta cheese. Stir gently to combine all ingredients and serve immediately while warm.

Notes

  • Use medium-sized shrimp for best texture—large shrimp may need longer cooking time, and smaller shrimp may cook too quickly.
  • If you prefer a vegetarian version, omit the shrimp and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
  • To make it gluten-free, substitute orzo with a gluten-free pasta alternative.
  • Fresh lemon zest provides the best flavor, but you can use bottled lemon juice as a last resort.
  • Stir frequently when cooking orzo to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 350 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 600 mg
  • Fat: 15 g
  • Saturated Fat: 7 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 25 g
  • Cholesterol: 130 mg

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