Zesty Lemon-Herb Orzo with Grilled Shrimp Recipe for Summer

Summers call for light, refreshing meals that spark joy at the dinner table, and this zesty lemon-herb orzo with grilled shrimp recipe delivers pure culinary bliss.

Mediterranean flavors dance across each vibrant plate, promising a delightful dining experience.

Tender, perfectly charred shrimp nestle atop a bed of orzo bursting with fresh herb notes.

Bright citrus undertones complement the succulent seafood, creating a harmonious balance of textures and tastes.

The dish comes together quickly, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

Crisp herbs and tangy lemon elevate this simple yet elegant meal from ordinary to extraordinary.

Lemon-Herb Orzo Shrimp: Why You’ll Adore It

• Savor Quick Weeknight Triumph: This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a delightful meal that comes together faster than ordering takeout, perfect for busy home cooks craving something special.
• Embrace Versatile Dining Delight: Enjoy as a light lunch, elegant dinner, or summer potluck contribution that impresses guests without requiring complex culinary skills.
• Customize with Ease: Swap proteins, adjust herbs, or modify ingredients to match personal taste preferences or dietary needs, making this dish incredibly adaptable for different palates.
• Celebrate Fresh Mediterranean Flavors: Packed with zesty lemon, herbs, and creamy feta, this recipe brings vibrant coastal cuisine directly to your dinner table with minimal effort.

Lemon-Herb Orzo Shrimp – Ingredient List

• Shrimp: Fresh seafood that provides the primary protein for the dish.

• Orzo: Small pasta that serves as the base of the salad and absorbs the citrus and herb flavors.

• Olive Oil, Lemon Zest, Lemon Juice: Bright citrus components that enhance the overall flavor profile.
• Salt, Pepper: Essential seasoning to balance and elevate the dish's taste.

• Cucumber, Red Onion, Scallions: Crisp vegetables that add texture and freshness to the orzo salad.
• Tomatoes: Optional ingredient that can be added for additional color and juiciness.

• Feta: Tangy cheese that provides a creamy and salty element to the salad.

• Fresh Herbs: Mixed herbs that add aromatic complexity and brightness to the dish.

Simple Steps For Orzo Shrimp Perfection

Step 1: Prep and Season Shrimp

Gather fresh shrimp and pat them dry with paper towels.

• olive oil
• lemon zest
• salt
• black pepper
• garlic powder

Ensure each shrimp is evenly coated with the seasoning mixture.

Step 2: Fire Up the Grill

Heat the grill to medium-high heat.

Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.

The grill should be hot enough to create nice grill marks on the shrimp.

Step 3: Grill the Shrimp

Place seasoned shrimp on the hot grill.

Cook for approximately 2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and develop light char marks.

Remove shrimp from grill and set aside.

Step 4: Cook the Orzo

Boil water in a large pot.

Add orzo and cook until tender but not mushy.

Drain pasta thoroughly in a colander.

Step 5: Create the Flavor Base

Transfer cooked orzo to a large mixing bowl.

• fresh lemon juice
• extra virgin olive oil
• salt
• black pepper

Stir to combine and coat the orzo evenly.

Step 6: Assemble the Dish

• grilled shrimp
• chopped fresh herbs (parsley, dill, basil)
• diced cucumber
• red onion
• sliced scallions
• crumbled feta cheese

Gently toss all ingredients together.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the dish immediately while warm.

If preparing in advance, refrigerate and add fresh chopped tomatoes just before serving to maintain freshness and vibrant flavors.

Lemon-Herb Orzo: Chef’s Handy Tips

• Use fresh lemon zest to add bright, citrusy notes that enhance the overall taste of the dish, giving it a vibrant and refreshing profile.
• Keep an eye on shrimp while grilling to prevent overcooking; they should turn pink and slightly curl, which indicates they're done and will remain tender.
• Choose fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or basil to bring maximum flavor; chop them finely to distribute evenly throughout the orzo salad.
• Let the dish rest at room temperature for 15-20 minutes to allow herbs and lemon juice to infuse into the orzo, creating a more balanced and delicious meal.

Variations For Zesty Lemon-Herb Orzo Shrimp

• Mediterranean Vegetarian Swap: Replace shrimp with grilled halloumi cheese, maintaining the herb and lemon marinade for a protein-packed vegetarian option.
• Gluten-Free Alternative: Substitute orzo with quinoa or cauliflower rice, keeping the same zesty herb dressing and grilled protein approach.
• Spicy Seafood Remix: Use blackened seasoning on shrimp and add diced jalapeños for a heat-packed version, maintaining the core Mediterranean flavor profile.
• Low-Carb Protein Bowl: Skip the grain entirely and serve grilled shrimp over mixed greens with the same herb and feta dressing for a lighter meal.

Ways To Serve Lemon-Herb Orzo With Shrimp

• Mediterranean Picnic Plate: Pack this dish in a portable container for a delightful outdoor lunch with crisp greens and extra lemon wedges.
• Fresh Seafood Starter: Serve as an elegant appetizer at a summer gathering, arranging shrimp artfully over the herbed orzo on a beautiful platter.
• Greek-Inspired Meal Companion: Pair with a chilled white wine like Assyrtiko and a light Greek salad to complete the Mediterranean dining experience.
• Quick Weeknight Dinner Solution: Enjoy as a complete one-bowl meal that combines protein, carbs, and fresh vegetables for a balanced and speedy dinner.

Lemon-Herb Orzo Shrimp: Storage Advice

• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Keep shrimp and orzo together to maintain flavors.
• Place portion in microwave-safe dish, sprinkle few drops of water to prevent drying. Heat on medium power for 45-60 seconds, stirring halfway through.
• Warm gently in a skillet with splash of olive oil over low heat. Stir occasionally to distribute heat evenly and prevent sticking.
• Enjoy chilled directly from refrigerator as a delightful Mediterranean-style salad, adding fresh herbs or extra lemon juice for brightness.

FAQs

• How do I prevent orzo from becoming mushy?

Cook orzo in plenty of salted water and drain immediately when al dente. Rinse with cold water to stop cooking process and prevent overcooking.

• Can I substitute feta cheese?

Yes, you can use goat cheese or ricotta for a similar creamy texture. Each cheese will slightly alter the dish’s flavor profile.

• What herbs work best in this recipe?

Fresh herbs like parsley, dill, and mint complement the lemon and shrimp perfectly. Use a mix of 2-3 herbs for complex flavor.

• How do I know when shrimp are properly grilled?

Shrimp are done when they turn pink and slightly curl. Overcooking makes them tough, so watch carefully during the 2-minute grilling time.

Lemon-Herb Orzo with Grilled Shrimp Recipe

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4.8 from 38 reviews

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Mediterranean sunshine dances through this lemon-herb orzo with grilled shrimp, blending zesty citrus and fresh herbs. Succulent shrimp nestled atop aromatic pasta promise a delightful journey of coastal flavors you’ll savor with each delectable bite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein:

• 1½–2 pounds (680–907 grams) large shrimp (peeled and deveined)

Herbs and Spices:

• 1 cup (240 milliliters) fresh herbs (chopped, dill, parsley, mint)
• ½ teaspoon lemon zest
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼–½ teaspoon chili flakes
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper

Base and Vegetables:

• 2 cups (340 grams) orzo pasta
• 2–3 lemons (zested and juiced, approximately ½ cup/120 milliliters lemon juice)
• 1 large cucumber (medium-diced)
• 2 cups (480 milliliters) cherry tomatoes (halved)
• ½ cup (80 grams) red onion (diced)
• 2 scallions (minced)
• 200 grams feta cheese (crumbled)
• ½ cup (120 milliliters) olive oil
• 1–2 tablespoons (15–30 milliliters) olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Prepare marinade by combining olive oil, lemon zest, and selected spices to coat shrimp thoroughly.
2. Heat grill to medium-high heat (approximately 400°F) and cook shrimp for 2 minutes per side until pink and slightly charred.
3. Remove shrimp from grill and set aside to rest while preparing orzo.
4. Cook orzo in salted water until tender, then drain completely in a colander.
5. Transfer warm orzo to a large mixing bowl and immediately season with lemon juice, additional olive oil, salt, and freshly ground pepper.
6. Gently fold grilled shrimp into orzo mixture, ensuring even distribution.
7. Add diced cucumber, red onion, scallions, and chopped fresh herbs to create vibrant texture and flavor profile.
8. Crumble feta cheese over the dish, allowing it to slightly melt from the warm ingredients.
9. For optimal taste, let the salad rest at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
10. Before serving, garnish with fresh cherry tomatoes for added color and freshness.

Notes

• Maximize shrimp flavor by marinating for 15-30 minutes before grilling to enhance tenderness and taste absorption.
• For gluten-free option, replace orzo with quinoa or cauliflower rice to maintain similar texture and nutritional profile.
• Keep herbs fresh by chopping just before adding to prevent wilting and preserve vibrant color and aromatic qualities.
• Prevent orzo from becoming mushy by cooking al dente and rinsing with cold water to stop cooking process immediately after draining.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 400 kcal
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 350 mg
• Fat: 22 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 34 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 28 g
• Cholesterol: 150 mg