Get ready to take your taste buds on a Mediterranean adventure with these mouthwatering Greek Shrimp Skewers paired with a refreshing orzo salad! Perfect for a summer barbecue or a quick weeknight dinner, this vibrant dish combines succulent shrimp, zesty flavors, and colorful vegetables that will leave you craving more. With just 35 minutes from prep to plate, you can impress your family and friends with a delightful meal that’s not only delicious but also healthy. Dive into this recipe and discover the secrets to creating a dish that will transport you straight to the sun-soaked shores of Greece!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Greek
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Skewers
Instructions
- Prepare the shrimp by patting them dry with paper towels and seasoning with salt and pepper. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- Cook orzo pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking, then set aside to cool.
- Thread shrimp onto skewers, ensuring they are evenly spaced and not overcrowded. Brush with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and season with additional salt and pepper.
- Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (around 400°F). For indoor cooking, use a cast-iron grill pan or heavy skillet.
- Grill shrimp skewers for 2-3 minutes per side, until they turn pink and develop light char marks. Avoid overcooking to prevent rubbery texture.
- While shrimp cook, prepare orzo salad by combining cooled orzo, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, and crumbled feta cheese in a large mixing bowl.
- Dress orzo salad with remaining olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Gently toss to combine all ingredients.
- Remove shrimp skewers from grill and let rest for 2 minutes. Plate the orzo salad and top with grilled shrimp skewers.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or dill if desired, and serve immediately while shrimp are warm.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can prepare the orzo salad in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just add the grilled shrimp when you're ready to serve for a fresh and warm meal.
- Skewer Soaking: If using wooden skewers, don’t skip soaking them in water for 30 minutes before grilling. This prevents them from burning and ensures even cooking.
- Don’t Overcook: Keep a close eye on the shrimp while grilling. They only need 2-3 minutes per side; overcooking can lead to a rubbery texture. Aim for a light char for the best flavor.
- Customize Your Salad: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the orzo salad, such as bell peppers or olives, for extra flavor and texture.
- Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or dill to elevate the dish and add a pop of color and flavor.
- Serve Immediately: For the best experience, serve the shrimp skewers right off the grill while they’re warm, alongside the chilled orzo salad.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 180mg
