Shrimp and Orzo with Cherry Tomatoes and Romano Cheese

INGREDIENTS

1 cup

uncooked orzo (rice-shaped pasta)

2 tbsp

olive oil, divided

3/4 tsp

salt, divided

1/4 tsp

black pepper, divided

1 lb

medium shrimp, peeled and deveined

1 cup

chopped Vidalia or other sweet onion

1 tbsp

bottled minced garlic

1/4 tsp

crushed red pepper

2 cups

cherry tomatoes, halved

1/3 cup

(about 1 1/2 ounces) grated fresh pecorino Romano cheese

1/3 cup

chopped fresh basil