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Balsamic Shrimp Orzo with Roasted Veggies & Whipped Feta Recipe

Balsamic Shrimp Orzo with Roasted Veggies & Whipped Feta Recipe

4.9 from 6 reviews

This vibrant and flavorful Balsamic Shrimp Orzo with Roasted Veggies & Whipped Feta combines tender shrimp glazed with balsamic vinegar, roasted seasonal vegetables, and creamy whipped feta over perfectly cooked orzo pasta. A wholesome, Mediterranean-inspired meal that’s easy to prepare and packed with fresh ingredients, perfect for a nutritious weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Shrimp and Seasoning

  • 12 ounces shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)

Vegetables

  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 zucchini, diced
  • 1 small red onion, diced

Pasta

  • 1 cup dry orzo pasta

Whipped Feta

  • 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Garnish

  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Roast Vegetables: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss the diced red bell pepper, zucchini, and red onion with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Spread them evenly on a baking sheet and roast for 20 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized, which brings out their natural sweetness.
  2. Cook Orzo: While the vegetables roast, cook the orzo pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain well and set aside to keep warm.
  3. Prepare Shrimp: Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season the shrimp with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook the shrimp for 2–3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are cooked through. Just before removing from heat, drizzle the shrimp with balsamic vinegar and stir to coat evenly, infusing them with a tangy sweetness.
  4. Make Whipped Feta: In a blender or food processor, combine the crumbled feta cheese, Greek yogurt, and lemon juice. Blend until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and whipped in texture, perfect for drizzling over the dish.
  5. Assemble the Dish: Toss the cooked orzo with the roasted vegetables, then top with the balsamic shrimp. Drizzle the whipped feta over the entire dish and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for color and added freshness.

Notes

  • You can substitute shrimp with chicken or tofu for a different protein option.
  • For a spicier kick, add crushed red pepper flakes to the shrimp while cooking.
  • Use a non-dairy yogurt to make the whipped feta dairy-free, but it will alter the texture slightly.
  • Leftover whipped feta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Make sure not to overcook the orzo as it will continue to soften slightly when combined with other warm ingredients.

Nutrition

Keywords: balsamic shrimp, orzo pasta, roasted vegetables, whipped feta, Mediterranean recipe, easy seafood dinner, healthy shrimp dish