Shrimp Saganaki with Orzo – A Greek Comfort Dish for Busy Moms

As a mom, I know how challenging it can be to put a delicious, homemade meal on the table while juggling everything else in life. That’s why I love Shrimp Saganaki with Orzo. This dish is packed with Mediterranean flavors, comes together quickly, and is a crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special dinner, this recipe will make you feel like a kitchen goddess without all the stress.

Greek Pasta

What is Shrimp Saganaki?

Shrimp Saganaki is a traditional Greek dish where shrimp are cooked in a rich, flavorful tomato sauce with garlic, onions, and feta cheese. The word “saganaki” refers to the small pan it’s traditionally cooked in, but don’t worry—you can make this in any skillet you have at home! While this dish is often served with bread, pairing it with orzo makes it a complete, satisfying meal.

Why This Recipe is Perfect for Moms

  • Fast and easy – You can have dinner ready in under 40 minutes.
  • Healthy and wholesome – Packed with protein, fiber, and Mediterranean goodness.
  • Kid-approved – Mild, cheesy, and delicious enough for even picky eaters.

Ingredients for Shrimp Saganaki with Orzo

For the Shrimp Saganaki:

  • 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Orzo:

  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 4 cups water or broth
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt to taste

Kitchen Equipment Needed

  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • Medium saucepan for orzo
  • Wooden spoon
  • Cutting board and knife

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Cook the Orzo

  1. Bring 4 cups of water or broth to a boil.
  2. Add orzo and a pinch of salt.
  3. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. Drain and toss with olive oil to prevent sticking.

2. Prepare the Shrimp Saganaki

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add onions and cook until soft, about 3 minutes.
  3. Stir in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
  4. Pour in diced tomatoes and tomato paste, stirring to combine.
  5. Season with oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
  6. Let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes until slightly thickened.
  7. Add shrimp to the sauce and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
  8. Sprinkle with crumbled feta and fresh parsley.

3. Assemble and Serve

  1. Divide the cooked orzo onto plates.
  2. Spoon the shrimp saganaki over the orzo.
  3. Garnish with extra parsley and feta.
  4. Serve hot with a side of crusty bread or a fresh Greek salad.

Conclusion

As a busy mom, I’m always looking for ways to serve up nutritious and delicious meals that don’t take all evening to prepare. This Shrimp Saganaki with Orzo is one of my go-to meals because it’s quick, comforting, and makes everyone happy. I hope you and your family love this dish as much as mine does! Let me know how it turns out, and don’t forget to share the recipe with your fellow moms.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes! Just thaw them completely before cooking.

2. What’s the best type of feta cheese for this dish? Use a block of Greek feta for the best flavor and texture.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, but add the shrimp just before serving to prevent overcooking.

4. Is orzo gluten-free? No, but you can substitute it with gluten-free pasta or rice.

5. Can I make this dish spicy? Absolutely! Increase the red pepper flakes for extra heat.

Enjoy your meal and don’t forget to share this recipe and subscribe to our blog for more easy, family-friendly recipes!

Shrimp Saganaki with Orzo

Shrimp Saganaki with Orzo

Shrimp Saganaki with Orzo
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course pasta

Equipment

  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • Medium saucepan for orzo
  • Wooden spoon
  • Cutting board and knife

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Orzo:

  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 4 cups water or broth
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt to taste

Notes

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Cook the Orzo

  1. Bring 4 cups of water or broth to a boil.
  2. Add orzo and a pinch of salt.
  3. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. Drain and toss with olive oil to prevent sticking.

2. Prepare the Shrimp Saganaki

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add onions and cook until soft, about 3 minutes.
  3. Stir in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
  4. Pour in diced tomatoes and tomato paste, stirring to combine.
  5. Season with oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
  6. Let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes until slightly thickened.
  7. Add shrimp to the sauce and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
  8. Sprinkle with crumbled feta and fresh parsley.

3. Assemble and Serve

  1. Divide the cooked orzo onto plates.
  2. Spoon the shrimp saganaki over the orzo.
  3. Garnish with extra parsley and feta.
  4. Serve hot with a side of crusty bread or a fresh Greek salad.

 

Keyword pasta

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