Mediterranean Garlic Shrimp With Orzo

Name: Mediterranean Garlic Shrimp With Orzo
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 cup orzo pasta; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1/4 cup olive oil; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Highlighted under: Inspired World Food Recipes

I find that there’s something incredibly satisfying about combining the fresh flavors of the Mediterranean in one dish. This Mediterranean Garlic Shrimp with Orzo is a perfect example, melding the distinct tastes of garlic, lemon, and herbs with tender shrimp and pasta. I love how quick it is to prepare and how it brings a taste of the coast right to my kitchen. Every bite transports me to a sunny terrace overlooking the sea, making it a staple in my weeknight dinner rotation.

Created by

Lavinia Moore

Last updated on 2026-02-10T16:17:35.952Z

When preparing Mediterranean Garlic Shrimp with Orzo for the first time, I was amazed by how quickly it came together. The key is to have all your ingredients prepped and in arm's reach, so you can focus on the cooking process. The garlic infuses the shrimp with flavor while the orzo absorbs the delightful broth, making each bite a delicious indulgence. It’s one of those recipes that feels fancy but is incredibly simple.

Another tip I discovered is to sauté the shrimp just until they turn pink to avoid cooking them too long and losing their tender texture. This dish is perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy night in. Next time I make it, I’ll sprinkle some feta over the top to elevate the flavors even more!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich garlic flavor complemented by fresh herbs
Quick and easy preparation perfect for busy nights
Versatile dish that can be served warm or chilled as a salad

Understanding Ingredients

The base of this Mediterranean Garlic Shrimp with Orzo recipe is the combination of shrimp and orzo pasta, both of which play a crucial role in the dish's texture and flavor. I recommend using large, firm shrimp for optimal results, as they hold up well during cooking. Ideally, look for shrimp that are sustainably sourced and have a firm, slightly translucent appearance. Avoid thawing shrimp at room temperature; instead, place them under cold running water for even defrosting while retaining their moisture and texture.

Orzo, resembling grains of rice, provides an excellent vehicle for garlic and lemon flavors. Ensure you cook the orzo just until al dente, as it will continue to absorb flavors from the skillet later on. If you're gluten-free, consider substituting with a gluten-free pasta or even quinoa, which will also add a similar texture and absorb the sauce beautifully.

Perfecting Your Technique

When sautéing garlic, keep a close eye on the heat level. Medium heat is ideal, and you want to sauté it for just about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. If it starts to brown, it can turn bitter, which will affect the overall taste of the dish. Add the shrimp immediately after the garlic to prevent it from cooking too long. The shrimp should be added in a single layer to ensure even cooking; overcrowding the pan can cause them to steam instead of sear.

Combining the ingredients requires gentle folding to avoid overcooking the shrimp. Stir just enough to mix in the cherry tomatoes and the orzo, allowing the tomatoes to warm and release some juices but not break apart entirely. This will create a more cohesive dish, with bursts of fresh tomato flavor offsetting the garlicky shrimp.

Serving and Storing

For serving, dish out the Mediterranean Garlic Shrimp with Orzo hot, garnished with fresh parsley. The bright green color adds a delightful visual contrast and a fresh, herbaceous note to the dish. This meal can also be enjoyed chilled, making it a versatile option for warm-weather lunches or picnics. In this case, allow the dish to cool before refrigerating to retain the best texture and flavor.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to prevent the orzo from drying out. This dish is not suited for long-term freezing, as the texture of the shrimp may deteriorate; however, you can prepare the orzo ahead of time to streamline the cooking process on busy weeknights.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp and Orzo

1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 cup orzo pasta
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
2 cups vegetable broth
1/4 cup olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Cooking Instructions

Cook the Orzo

In a medium pot, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, then add the shrimp. Sprinkle with salt and pepper and cook until the shrimp turn pink, about 3-4 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Add the cherry tomatoes and cooked orzo to the skillet with the shrimp. Drizzle with lemon juice and stir to combine all ingredients. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve warm. Enjoy your Mediterranean escape in a bowl!

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding capers or olives to the dish. Both pair beautifully with the shrimp and add a briny depth that enhances the Mediterranean vibe.

Vegetable Variations

Feel free to customize the vegetable content of this dish according to your taste or seasonal availability. Zucchini or bell peppers can be great additions, sautéed alongside the shrimp to incorporate more color and nutrients. Adding spinach or arugula during the final stages brings a lovely bitterness that complements the sweetness of the tomatoes and the richness of the shrimp.

If you choose to add vegetables, increase the overall cooking time slightly to ensure everything is cooked to your preference. Aim for a bright, vibrant presentation to match the Mediterranean theme, but be careful not to overcook them; tender-crisp is the goal for a delightful bite.

Enhancing Flavor Profiles

Experimenting with flavor profiles can elevate this dish. A splash of white wine added just after sautéing the shrimp can deepen the overall flavor, bringing a slight acidity that beautifully balances the richness of the olive oil and garlic. If you want a kick of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes during the shrimp cooking phase.

For a touch of nuttiness, finish the dish with a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds. These add an unexpected crunch and complement the Mediterranean theme while enhancing the overall flavor complexity.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can prep the ingredients ahead and assemble right before serving.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for more color and nutrition!

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, substitute orzo with a gluten-free pasta option.