Shrimp and Orzo with Cherry Tomatoes and Romano Cheese

Ingredients

• 1 cup uncooked orzo (rice-shaped pasta)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 3/4 teaspoon salt, divided
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, divided
• 1 lb. medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup chopped Vidalia or other sweet onion
• 1 tablespoon bottled minced garlic
• 1/4 teaspoon 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