Ingredients
Shrimp and Seasoning
- 1 pound 16/20 shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Extra-virgin olive oil
- Kosher salt and freshly-cracked black pepper, to taste
Orzo Pasta
- ½ cup orzo pasta
Vegetables and Aromatics
- ½ yellow onion, diced
- ½ red bell pepper, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped
Herbs and Spices
- ½ teaspoon dry oregano
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
Liquids and Sauce
- ½ cup white wine (substitute fish stock or water)
- 14 ounces crushed tomatoes
Finishing Touches
- 1 tablespoon finely-chopped fresh parsley
- ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp: Rinse and pat dry the peeled and deveined shrimp. Season them lightly with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Set aside while you prepare the sauce and orzo.
- Cook the Aromatics: Heat a generous drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced yellow onion and red bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften. Then add the finely chopped garlic, dry oregano, and red pepper flakes. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant, stirring frequently to avoid burning the garlic.
- Add Liquids and Simmer the Sauce: Pour in ½ cup white wine (or substitute with fish stock or water). Let it simmer and reduce slightly for 2-3 minutes to concentrate flavors. Next, stir in the crushed tomatoes and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce cook for about 10 minutes to thicken and develop flavor.
- Cook the Orzo: In a separate pot, bring water to a boil and cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions until al dente (typically 7-9 minutes). Drain the orzo and set aside.
- Combine Shrimp and Sauce: Add the seasoned shrimp to the tomato sauce in the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Cover and cook for 4-5 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, indicating they are fully cooked. Avoid overcooking to maintain tender shrimp.
- Finish the Dish: Stir in the cooked orzo gently to combine with the shrimp and tomato sauce. Sprinkle the finely chopped fresh parsley over the top, then crumble ¼ cup of feta cheese evenly across the dish. Allow the residual heat to soften the cheese slightly before serving.
- Serve and Enjoy: Spoon the shrimp saganaki with orzo onto plates or bowls. Drizzle a little extra-virgin olive oil on top if desired for added richness. Serve immediately while warm for the best flavor experience.
Notes
- Use medium-sized shrimp (16/20 count) to ensure they cook evenly without becoming tough.
- White wine adds acidity and depth, but fish stock or water work well as non-alcoholic alternatives.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to taste depending on your preferred level of heat.
- For gluten-free option, substitute orzo pasta with gluten-free pasta or rice.
- Serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious tomato sauce if you like.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Greek
- Diet: Halal