Roasted Shrimp and Orzo

The Barefoot Contessa's version calls for a lot of fresh dill and parsley; I used a smaller amount of fresh oregano and rosemary instead. Feta on the side.

• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
  
• Good olive oil
  
• 1/2 pound orzo or mini farfalle
  
• 6 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice (2 lemons)
  
• 1.5 pounds (16 to 18 count) shrimp, peeled and deveined
  
• 3/4 cup minced scallions, white and green parts
  
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano
  
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
  
• 1 small cucumber, unpeeled, seeded, and medium-diced
  
• 1/4 cup small-diced red onion
  
• Grated Parmesan and/or feta cheese, large diced
  

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.

Fill a large pot with water, add 1 tablespoon of salt and a splash of oil, and bring the water to a boil. Add the orzo and simmer for 9 to 11 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it's cooked al dente. Drain and pour into a large bowl. Whisk together the lemon juice, 1/2 cup olive oil, 2 teaspoons salt and 1 teaspoon of pepper. Pour over the hot pasta and stir well.

Meanwhile, place the shrimp on a sheet pan, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Toss to combine and spread out in a single layer. Roast for 5 to 6 minutes, until the shrimp are cooked through. Don't overcook!

Add the shrimp to the orzo and then add the scallions, dill, parsley, cucumber, onion, 2 teaspoons salt, and 1 teaspoon pepper. Toss well. Add the feta and stir carefully. Set aside at room temperature for 1 hour to allow the flavors to blend, or refrigerate overnight. If refrigerated, taste again for seasonings and bring back to room temperature before serving.

Makes 4 servings plus leftovers

Adapted from Ina Garten, Barefoot Contessa at Home, via Food Network