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barefoot contessa roasted shrimp and orzo

Barefoot Contessa Roasted Shrimp And Orzo Recipe

Sharon Brown
I have always held a special affection for recipes that turn dining into an event, rather than just a daily chore. Roasted Shrimp and Orzo by Barefoot Contessa is one of those meals that makes my heart sing.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 35 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Mediterranean
Servings 6
Calories 564 kcal

Equipment

  • Baking sheet

Ingredients
  

  • 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice approximately 3 lemons
  • 2 pounds 16 to 18 count shrimp, cleaned and deveined
  • Sea salt
  • Premium extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/4 cup capers rinsed
  • 1/2 cup diced red onion
  • 1 hothouse cucumber unpeeled, seeded, and diced into medium pieces
  • 1 cup sliced scallions both white and green parts
  • 1 cup roughly chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
  • 1 cup finely chopped fresh dill
  • 3/4 pound quality feta cheese cut into large cubes
  • 1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives halved
  • Coarsely cracked black pepper
  • 3/4 pound orzo small rice-shaped pasta

Instructions
 

  • Start by prepping your ingredients. Rinse the shrimp under cool water and pat dry. Juice those fresh lemons, ensuring you eliminate any seeds. Chop the parsley and dill—fresh herbs add a burst of flavor.
  • Dicing the cucumber and red onion is next. This step creates a beautiful medley of colors and textures in the dish.
  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). On a large baking sheet, spread the shrimp evenly. Drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with sea salt and black pepper. Give them a good toss until they are well-coated.
  • Roast the shrimp for about 10-12 minutes or until they turn pink and opaque.
  • While the shrimp is roasting, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally so it doesn’t stick.
  • Once cooked, drain the orzo and place it in a large bowl.
  • To the bowl of warm orzo, add the roasted shrimp directly from the oven, along with the capers, red onion, cucumber, scallions, parsley, and dill. Gently toss everything together to combine.
  • The warmth from the orzo will help the flavors meld beautifully.
  • Add a generous splash of lemon juice and a good drizzle of olive oil over the mixture. Toss to ensure that each ingredient is coated in tangy goodness. If you like it cheesier, add the feta cubes and olives now.
  • Give everything another gentle toss to combine.
  • Transfer your warm, flavorful creation to a serving platter. Garnish with extra herbs or lemon slices as desired. This dish is equally delightful served warm or at room temperature, making it incredibly versatile.

Notes

  • Don't Overcook the Shrimp: Keep an eye on the shrimp as they roast. They cook quickly, and overcooking can lead to rubbery texture.
  • Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs make a noticeable difference. Dried herbs can’t provide the same vibrance.
  • Make Ahead: You can prepare the orzo and chop the veggies ahead of time for a quicker assembly on the day of serving.
  • Adjust the Squeeze: Play around with the lemon juice amount according to your taste. If you prefer a tangier kick, don’t hesitate to add more.
  • Add Vegetables: Feel free to incorporate seasonal vegetables. Roasted asparagus or cherry tomatoes can add another layer of flavor.

Nutrition

Calories: 564kcal
Keyword barefoot contessa roasted shrimp and orzo recipe
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