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Mediterranean Lemon Orzo with Grilled Shrimp and Spinach Recipe

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A bright, weeknight-friendly Mediterranean dish combining zesty lemon, al dente orzo, juicy grilled shrimp, and tender spinach. Light yet flavorful, with a balance of citrus, herbs, and olive oil, perfect for fast, healthy meal prep.

  • Total Time: 35
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup orzo pasta
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 cups fresh spinach
2 lemons (juiced and zested)
4 cloves garlic (minced)
1/4 cup olive oil
1/2 cup feta cheese (crumbled)
1 tbsp fresh dill (chopped)
Red pepper flakes (optional)
salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook orzo until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and toss with 1 tbsp olive oil to prevent sticking.
Meanwhile, preheat grill or skillet to medium-high. In a bowl, mix lemon juice, 1 tbsp lemon zest, minced garlic, 2 tbsp olive oil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Add shrimp to the glaze, toss, and grill for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and charred.
In a large bowl, combine cooked orzo, spinach, remaining lemon zest, 2 tbsp olive oil, dill, and half the feta cheese. Add grilled shrimp and sauté the garlic-lemon glaze (reserving a splash for drizzling). Toss to combine.
Adjust seasoning, garnish with remaining feta and dill, and serve immediately. Add a squeeze of fresh lemon just before serving.

Notes

If using a stovetop instead of a grill, cook shrimp in a hot skillet with a bit of olive oil to achieve a seared char.
Shrimp can be substituted with halal chicken strips or grilled tofu for a vegetarian option.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Add a splash of lemon juice when reheating to restore brightness.

  • Author: Amelie Harper
  • Prep Time: 15
  • Cook Time: 20
  • Category: Mediterranean Basics
  • Method: Boiling, Grilling, Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 420
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 480mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Carbohydrates: 43g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 34g
  • Cholesterol: 185mg