Lemon Orzo with Shrimp, Feta & Spinach Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors but still comes together in no time, this Lemon Orzo with Shrimp, Feta & Spinach Recipe is exactly what you need. I love how bright the lemon is against the creamy orzo, complemented perfectly by juicy shrimp and salty bite-sized feta cubes. It’s one of those dishes that feels special enough for company yet simple enough for a weeknight dinner.

What really wins me over is how satisfying it is without being heavy—this recipe strikes a beautiful balance between light and hearty. Whether you’re after a delicious lunch or a quick dinner, the flavors here will make your kitchen smell amazing and everyone at the table happy. Trust me, once you try this Lemon Orzo with Shrimp, Feta & Spinach Recipe, it’ll quickly become a go-to in your meal rotation.

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Ingredients & Why They Work

Each ingredient here plays an important role—the orzo creates a lovely, tender base, while the shrimp add protein and a slightly sweet, briny bite. The lemon punctuates with fresh acidity, balancing the creamy butter and chicken broth. Buying fresh shrimp and good-quality feta will make a noticeable difference in flavor.

• Butter: Adds richness and helps develop flavor in the shrimp and aromatics.
• Shrimp: I recommend buying deveined raw shrimp—they cook quickly and absorb flavors well.
• Garlic: Provides a fragrant base that complements the lemon and shrimp beautifully.
• Onion: Adds subtle sweetness and texture when softened.
• Orzo: This tiny pasta simmers up creamy and comforting, holding onto all the sauce.
• Chicken Broth: Using broth instead of water deepens the flavor of the orzo.
• Lemon Zest & Juice: The secret to that bright, refreshing hit—make sure to zest before juicing.
• Spinach: Adds color, a hint of earthiness, and nutrients without overwhelming the dish.
• Feta Cheese: Small cubes bring a salty, tangy bite that contrasts perfectly with the lemon and shrimp.
• Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning—the key is to season in layers to build depth.

Make It Your Way

I love tweaking this Lemon Orzo with Shrimp, Feta & Spinach Recipe depending on the season or what I have in the fridge. Feel free to swap the shrimp for chicken or add other veggies like cherry tomatoes or asparagus. It really welcomes your personal touch and still tastes fantastic.

• Variation: I sometimes add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat—gives the dish an exciting kick without overpowering the lemony freshness.
• Vegetarian Option: Skip the shrimp and add sautéed mushrooms or roasted chickpeas for texture and protein.
• Gluten-Free Swap: Use a gluten-free orzo or substitute with quinoa—they cook a bit differently but still make a tasty base.
• Extra Creamy: Stir in a spoonful of cream cheese or Greek yogurt at the end for an indulgent twist.

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 over medium-high heat in a large pan. While it melts, generously season the shrimp with salt and pepper. Add them to the pan and sauté for about 2 minutes on each side until they turn a lovely pink. Don’t overcook here—shrimp cook fast and get rubbery if left too long. Once done, remove them and set aside on a plate. This step builds the dish’s seafood flavor foundation.

Step 2: Build Flavor with Aromatics

In the same pan, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter. Add the minced garlic and diced onion, cooking for 3 to 4 minutes until the onions soften and become fragrant. Stir often and keep the heat moderate to avoid burning your garlic, which can turn bitter. This creates a lovely flavor base for your orzo.

Step 3: Cook the Orzo until Creamy

Pour the orzo and chicken broth into the pan. Bring it to a simmer, then reduce heat to maintain a gentle bubble. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Let it cook for about 10 to 12 minutes, until the liquid mostly evaporates and the orzo develops a creamy texture. This is the magic moment where the orzo absorbs all the savory broth and butter flavors.

Step 4: Brighten It Up with Lemon & Spinach

Once the orzo is creamy and tender, stir in the lemon juice and lemon zest to brighten everything up. Then add the spinach and mix it gently into the warm orzo—watch it wilt and transform the dish instantly with its color and freshness.

Step 5: Finish with Shrimp and Feta

Return the cooked shrimp to the pan and toss in the cubed feta. Stir everything together so the shrimp warm through and the feta starts to soften but not melt. This final step brings all the flavors and textures together, ready to serve immediately.

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

Garnishes

I like to top this with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or dill for an herby brightness and a few extra crumbles of feta to amp up the salty contrast. Sometimes a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a few lemon wedges on the side never hurts either—it amps the freshness right at the table.

Side Dishes

When I serve this Lemon Orzo with Shrimp, Feta & Spinach Recipe, I often pair it with a simple mixed green salad or roasted vegetables. A crisp cucumber and tomato salad with a light vinaigrette also balances the flavors nicely. Bread on the side is optional because this dish is hearty, but a crusty baguette never disappoints.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, I’ve served this in individual shallow bowls garnished with edible flowers and a lemon twist for an elegant touch. Another time, I layered the orzo mixture inside hollowed lemons for a stunning presentation that doubles as a citrusy serving vessel—guests loved the visual and the burst of lemon aroma.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. To keep the orzo from drying out, I add a splash of water or chicken broth before reheating. The spinach might lose a bit of its vivid green, but the flavors hold up well.

Freezing

Freezing this dish isn’t my go-to because the feta and shrimp textures can change. However, if you want to freeze portions, it helps to leave out the feta and fresh spinach initially and add them fresh after reheating.

Reheating

I reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring frequently and adding a bit of broth or water to loosen the orzo. The shrimp reheat quickly this way without becoming tough, and adding fresh spinach before serving helps revive the color and nutrients.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Lemon Orzo with Shrimp, Feta & Spinach Recipe has become a staple in my kitchen for how effortlessly it comes together and the way it delivers big on fresh flavor. It feels like a little celebration every time I make it—and I’m always excited to share it with friends. Give it a try, you’ll love how quick, easy, and satisfying it is. It’s one of those recipes that feels fancy without the fuss, perfect for when you want something that tastes like a treat but you didn’t slave over it all day.

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