Get ready to embark on a culinary journey that will whisk you away to the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean with this irresistible Shrimp Orzo Salad! In just 25 minutes, you'll create a vibrant, flavor-packed dish that's not just a meal, but a sensory experience. Imagine plump, succulent shrimp dancing with al dente orzo, tangy feta, and juicy cherry tomatoes - this recipe is about to become your new summer obsession!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and add a pinch of salt. Bring to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Add orzo pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While pasta is cooking, prepare the shrimp. Pat shrimp dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque, ensuring they are just cooked through.
- Drain the orzo in a colander and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta quickly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled orzo, cooked shrimp, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese.
- Drizzle lemon juice and remaining olive oil over the salad. Gently toss to combine all ingredients.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.
- Cover and refrigerate for 15-20 minutes to allow flavors to meld together before serving.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature as a refreshing Mediterranean-style pasta salad.
Tips
- Pasta Perfection: Always cook orzo al dente and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent a mushy texture.
- Shrimp Success: Pat shrimp dry before cooking to ensure a perfect sear and prevent steaming. Cook just until they turn pink to maintain tenderness.
- Flavor Infusion: Let the salad rest in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes before serving. This allows the ingredients to mingle and intensify the Mediterranean flavors.
- Customize Your Creation: Feel free to add fresh herbs like chopped parsley or mint for an extra burst of freshness.
- Make-Ahead Magic: This salad tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep or summer gatherings!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 180mg
