Imagine a dish that transports you to the sun-drenched coastal regions of Greece with just one bite - a culinary journey that combines succulent shrimp, creamy feta, and perfectly cooked orzo in a single, mouthwatering masterpiece. This Baked Shrimp and Orzo with Feta Cheese isn't just a meal; it's an experience that promises to elevate your home cooking from ordinary to extraordinary, bringing the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean right to your dinner table.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your dish cooks evenly and the shrimp gets a nice, golden color.
- In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the orzo pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the orzo is cooking, prepare the shrimp and vegetables. In a large mixing bowl, combine the peeled and deveined shrimp, halved cherry tomatoes, olive oil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until the shrimp and tomatoes are well coated with the oil and seasonings.
- Once the orzo is cooked, drain it and add it to the mixing bowl with the shrimp and tomatoes. Gently mix everything together until the orzo is evenly distributed among the shrimp and vegetables.
- Transfer the orzo and shrimp mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly, ensuring the shrimp and tomatoes are distributed throughout.
- Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese evenly over the top of the mixture. This will add a delicious creamy and tangy flavor as it bakes.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the shrimp are cooked through and opaque, and the feta is slightly golden and bubbly.
- Once done, remove the baking dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to settle.
- Serve the baked shrimp and orzo warm, garnished with additional feta cheese or a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy your Mediterranean-inspired dish!
Tips
- Choose fresh, high-quality shrimp for the best flavor and texture. Look for shrimp that are firm and have a mild sea-like smell.
- Don't overcook the orzo - aim for al dente, as it will continue cooking slightly in the oven.
- Use cherry tomatoes at peak ripeness to enhance the dish's natural sweetness.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or dill before baking.
- Ensure your baking dish is well-greased to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Let the dish rest for 2-3 minutes after baking to allow flavors to meld and the cheese to set slightly.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute orzo with cauliflower rice or quinoa.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 220mg
