Skip to content 
Embark on a refreshing journey with our Zesty Orzo Salad featuring succulent shrimp and a tantalizing lemon dressing. This recipe promises a symphony of flavors, combining the vibrant zing of lemon with the savory delight of perfectly cooked shrimp. Whether you’re a seafood lover or seeking a light and flavorful meal, this easy-to-follow recipe is your passport to a culinary adventure. Join us as we guide you through the steps of creating this zesty and succulent masterpiece, ensuring every forkful is a celebration of freshness and taste. Get ready to indulge in the refreshing allure of our Lemon-Kissed Shrimp Orzo Salad!
Ingredients
- 1 cup of orzo pasta
- 1 pound of large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup of cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup of red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup of fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup of feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Lemon Dressing
- 1/4 cup of fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 clove of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon of honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Cooking the Orzo
- Begin by cooking the orzo pasta according to the package instructions. Make sure it’s al dente, then drain and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set it aside.
Preparing the Lemon Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper. This vibrant lemon vinaigrette will infuse your salad with a zesty and tangy flavor.
Grilling the Shrimp
- Season the peeled and deveined shrimp with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper. You can grill the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and slightly charred, or you can sauté them in a pan with a bit of olive oil over medium-high heat. Set the cooked shrimp aside.
Assembling the Salad
- In a large salad bowl, combine the cooked orzo pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, finely chopped red onion, and fresh parsley. Toss them together gently to distribute the ingredients evenly.
- Add the grilled shrimp to the salad mixture, gently combining them with the pasta and veggies.
- Drizzle the zesty lemon dressing over the salad. The combination of lemon juice, olive oil, and Dijon mustard will brighten up the entire dish.
- If desired, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top for a creamy and tangy contrast.
Serving Your Orzo Salad
- Serve your “Zesty Orzo Salad with Succulent Shrimp and Lemon Dressing” chilled, allowing the flavors to meld together. It’s perfect as a light and refreshing summer salad or a delightful side dish for any dinner occasion.
Variations
- Customize your orzo salad with additional veggies such as bell peppers, olives, or artichoke hearts for even more flavor and color.
- To make it heartier, add grilled chicken or salmon in place of or alongside the shrimp.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like basil or mint for an extra burst of aroma and freshness.
This “Zesty Orzo Salad with Succulent Shrimp and Lemon Dressing” is not just a salad; it’s a culinary experience that balances the citrusy zing of lemon dressing with the satisfying richness of shrimp and the crunch of fresh veggies. Whether you’re looking for a light summer meal, a potluck contribution, or a side dish to elevate your dinner, this salad is sure to impress with its vibrant flavors and textures. Enjoy the simplicity and deliciousness of homemade salad with a touch of zesty elegance.
