Dive into a culinary escape with our tantalizing Cold Orzo Salad with Shrimp! This Mediterranean delight is not only a feast for the eyes but also a refreshing dish that will transport your taste buds to sun-soaked shores. Perfect for warm days or as a light meal, this vibrant salad combines tender orzo pasta, succulent shrimp, and a medley of fresh vegetables, all tossed in a zesty dressing that will leave you craving more. Ready to impress your friends and family? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- Orzo pasta
- Shrimp
- Cherry tomatoes
- Cucumber
- Feta cheese
- Olive oil
- Lemon juice
- Parsley
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add orzo pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes.
- While pasta is cooking, prepare an ice bath in a large bowl. Once orzo is cooked, drain and immediately rinse with cold water, then transfer to the ice bath to stop cooking and cool quickly.
- Peel and devein shrimp if not already prepared. Season with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
- Dice cucumber into small, uniform cubes. Halve cherry tomatoes. Chop fresh parsley finely.
- In a large mixing bowl, drain cooled orzo thoroughly. Add cooked shrimp, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and crumbled feta cheese.
- Create dressing by whisking together olive oil, fresh lemon juice, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
- Pour dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine all ingredients, ensuring even coating.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Serve chilled as a refreshing Mediterranean-style pasta salad.
Tips
- Perfectly Cooked Orzo: To achieve the ideal al dente texture, keep a close eye on the cooking time of the orzo. Taste it a minute or two before the package instructions suggest to ensure it’s just right!
- Chill It Right: Don’t skip the ice bath after cooking the orzo! This crucial step halts the cooking process and ensures your pasta remains firm and deliciously cool.
- Flavor Boost: For an extra flavor punch, consider marinating the shrimp in lemon juice and garlic for 15-20 minutes before cooking. This will infuse them with a delightful zing.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use the freshest ingredients you can find, especially the vegetables and herbs. Fresh parsley and ripe tomatoes will elevate the dish and enhance its vibrant flavors.
- Make Ahead: This salad is even better when made in advance. Allowing it to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes lets the flavors meld beautifully, making it a perfect make-ahead option for gatherings.
- Versatile Additions: Feel free to customize your salad! Add in ingredients like olives, bell peppers, or even artichoke hearts for a unique twist that suits your taste.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 136kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: 9g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
