Picture a wholesome, well-rounded meal in a single pot – that’s what our Mediterranean baked shrimp orzo is all about. It covers all the food groups for a satisfying and nutritious experience.
In this dish, we sauté fresh and flavourful vegetables, adding depth and essential nutrients to our orzo pasta and plump shrimp. Everything bakes together in the oven to perfection, creating juicy and tender goodness. To top it off, a sprinkle of feta cheese ties together the vibrant Mediterranean Flavors.
This recipe’s beauty lies in its simplicity; it’s a breeze to prepare and leaves you with minimal cleanup. It’s not just impressive in taste but also perfect for a romantic date night or those busy weeknights when you need something delicious on the table in just 30 minutes.
Table of Contents
WHY WILL YOU ENJOY MEDITERRANEAN BAKED SHRIMP ORZO?
- The Magic of Orzo: Let’s talk orzo—it’s a crowd-pleaser! You might be surprised to learn that despite its name, which means “barley” in Italian, orzo is not a grain of rice but a delightful little pasta. It’s a versatile gem that shines in dishes like Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup and Mediterranean orzo pasta salad. In our Mediterranean Baked Shrimp Orzo, it takes centre stage, becoming tender and creamy when fully cooked.
- Baking Shrimp to Perfection: Baked shrimp, when done just right (think high temperature and precise timing), emerges as a masterpiece of tenderness, juiciness, and flavour. Our recipe bathes these delectable morsels in a Savory tomato sauce, ensuring they reach their peak texture and taste.
- Healthy Comfort in Every Bite: Mediterranean Baked Shrimp Orzo is the epitome of comfort food with a nutritious twist. It’s rich, satisfying, and brimming with essential nutrients. With mushrooms, onions, garlic, and tomatoes in the mix, you won’t need to fret about adding greens on the side. Plus, with the clean protein from the shrimp and the carbs, it’s a well-balanced meal that nourishes your body and soul.
Mediterranean baked shrimp orzo recipe video:
Ingredients:
- 1-pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 ½ cups orzo pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
- ½ cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven: Before you dive into creating your Mediterranean Baked Shrimp Orzo, make sure to preheat your oven to a toasty 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: Cook the Orzo: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics: In a large ovenproof skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 2 minutes until it becomes translucent. Now, let’s bring in the minced garlic, red bell pepper, and yellow bell pepper to the mix. Sauté for an additional 2-3 minutes until the peppers start to soften.
Step 4: Add Zucchini and Spices: Stir in the diced zucchini and the dried herbs (oregano, basil, and thyme). Cook for another 2 minutes until the zucchini begins to soften.
Step 5: Combine Tomatoes and Orzo: Add the canned diced tomatoes (with their juice) to the skillet. Mix well and let it simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the Flavors to meld together. Stir in the cooked orzo and sliced Kalamata olives. Add salt and black pepper according to your taste preferences.
Step 6: Add Shrimp: Nestle the peeled and deveined shrimp into the orzo mixture in an even layer.
Step 7: Bake: Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. The orzo should be slightly golden on top.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from the oven, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top, and garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor.
Mediterranean Baked Shrimp Orzo Nutrition Information:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
| Calories | 380 |
| Total Fat | 15g |
| – Saturated Fat | 4g |
| Cholesterol | 120mg |
| Sodium | 650mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 41g |
| – Dietary Fiber | 4g |
| – Sugars | 4g |
| Protein | 21g |
| Vitamin D | 20% DV |
| Calcium | 15% DV |
| Iron | 20% DV |
| Potassium | 450mg |
Health Benefits:
- Protein: Shrimp and orzo are high in protein, which aids in muscle repair and growth.
- Fiber: The veggies and whole-grain orzo in this recipe are abundant in dietary fiber, which supports excellent digestion and keeps you feeling full and content.
- Healthy Fats: Olive oil contains monounsaturated fats, which are heart-healthy and can help lower the risk of heart disease.
- Vitamins and minerals: Vitamin D, calcium, and iron are all included in the meal and are beneficial to bone health and overall well-being.
- Antioxidants: Antioxidants like vitamin C and lycopene found in bell peppers and tomatoes can help protect your cells from damage.
- Low Saturated Fat: The recipe has less saturated fat, which is good for your heart.
- Mediterranean Diet: This recipe follows the Mediterranean diet, which is known for lowering the risk of long-term conditions and promoting a longer, healthier life.
Remember that nutritional values may vary based on serving size and individual components used, so it’s always a good idea to contact with a nutritionist or use a nutritional calculator for exact values. As part of a well-balanced diet, enjoy your Mediterranean Baked Shrimp Orzo in moderation.
INSTRUCTIONS FOR STORAGE AND REHEATING
1. How to store:
The best way to enjoy the full, fresh Flavors of Mediterranean baked shrimp orzo is right after it’s cooked. However, if you find yourself with leftovers, no worries! You can keep them in the fridge, securely sealed in an airtight container, for up to three days. Remember, the sooner you dig in, the better it will taste!
2. How to reheat:
When it’s time to reheat your dish, consider these methods for the best results. Pop it in the oven at a gentle 300°F for approximately 10 minutes until it’s heated through, or warm it up on the stovetop over medium-low heat. These methods ensure that your shrimp retain their tenderness and flavor. As a friendly tip, steer clear of the microwave for reheating, as it can turn those lovely shrimps into something tough and rubbery – and we want every bite to be as delightful as the first!