Shrimp Orzo Pasta Salad is a light, flavorful dish that combines tender shrimp, nutty orzo pasta, and a medley of fresh vegetables. With its bright, zesty dressing and perfect balance of textures, this salad is an ideal choice for warm weather gatherings, meal prep, or even a simple weeknight dinner. I first discovered this dish when I was looking for something light yet filling to serve at a summer barbecue, and it quickly became a family favorite. The versatility of this salad means it can be served warm, at room temperature, or chilled, making it a perfect option for any occasion. Plus, you can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or swapping out the shrimp for another protein, making it a dish you’ll want to come back to again and again.
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Shrimp Orzo Pasta Salad: A Refreshing and Flavorful Dish Perfect for Any Occasion
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A refreshing shrimp orzo pasta salad with a light, zesty dressing, perfect for a summer meal or side dish.
Ingredients
- 8 oz orzo pasta
- 1 lb cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the orzo pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled orzo pasta, shrimp, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, and feta cheese.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta and toss gently to combine.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled and enjoy!
Notes
- For added flavor, you can include some chopped fresh basil or parsley.
- If you prefer, you can swap the shrimp with grilled chicken for a different protein.
- This salad can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Boiling, Tossing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients Breakdown
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Shrimp: The star of the dish, shrimp adds a succulent, protein-packed element. I recommend using large, peeled, and deveined shrimp for ease, as they cook quickly and have a sweet, mild flavor that pairs beautifully with the orzo. Fresh shrimp works best, but frozen shrimp is also a convenient option – just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking.
Orzo: Orzo is a small, rice-shaped pasta that works wonderfully in salads. Its size and texture allow it to absorb the dressing while providing a nice bite. Orzo cooks quickly, making it an easy choice for a weeknight meal or a quick salad prep.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil serves as the base for the dressing. It adds richness and depth, blending beautifully with the other ingredients. I’ve tried making the dressing with avocado oil too, and it worked just as well while offering a slightly different flavor profile.
Lemon: Fresh lemon juice adds a bright, tangy note to the dressing, which helps to balance the richness of the olive oil and the sweetness of the shrimp. A little lemon zest also goes a long way in enhancing the citrus flavor.
Garlic: Minced garlic gives the dressing an aromatic kick. If you’re a garlic fan, you can use a bit more for extra depth. Sautéing the garlic briefly in olive oil before mixing it into the salad can mellow out its sharpness, but I personally enjoy its raw punch.
Cherry Tomatoes: These sweet tomatoes are a colorful and juicy addition. Their slight sweetness contrasts nicely with the savory shrimp and the zesty lemon dressing.
Cucumber: Crisp cucumber adds a refreshing crunch to the salad. It pairs beautifully with the other vegetables and provides a cooling contrast to the warm shrimp and orzo.
Red Onion: Red onion brings a mild sharpness and color to the salad. I suggest slicing the onion thinly to make it easier to eat, and soaking it in water for a few minutes before adding it can help tone down its raw intensity.
Fresh Herbs (Parsley and Basil): Fresh herbs are a must! Parsley adds a mild, grassy note, while basil offers a touch of sweetness and peppery flavor. Both complement the shrimp and vegetables perfectly, adding brightness and freshness to the dish.
Feta Cheese (Optional): Feta cheese adds creaminess and a tangy bite. While this is optional, it’s a great way to elevate the flavor profile and add richness to the salad.
Salt and Pepper: Season to taste. Salt enhances the flavors of the ingredients, while freshly cracked black pepper adds warmth and complexity.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Cook the Orzo: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to the package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside to cool.
- Cook the Shrimp: While the orzo is cooking, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are opaque and cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside to cool.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons of olive oil, the juice of one lemon, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. You can also add lemon zest for extra citrus flavor if you like.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled orzo, shrimp, halved cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and herbs. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything gently to coat.
- Serve: If desired, sprinkle the salad with crumbled feta cheese for extra flavor. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Servings and Timing
This Shrimp Orzo Pasta Salad yields about 4 servings. It takes approximately 20-25 minutes of active cooking time: 10 minutes for the orzo and 10-15 minutes to cook the shrimp and assemble the salad. It’s perfect for a quick dinner, or you can chill it for 30 minutes before serving to enhance the flavor.
Equipment Needed
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results.
- Skillet: A good non-stick or stainless-steel skillet is essential for cooking shrimp evenly.
- Large Mixing Bowl: For combining the orzo, shrimp, and vegetables.
- Measuring Spoons: To get the exact balance of seasoning and dressing ingredients.
- Sharp Knife: For chopping vegetables and shrimp with ease.
Variations and Customizations
This Shrimp Orzo Pasta Salad is incredibly versatile and can be easily adapted to suit different preferences. Here are some ideas to customize it:
- Swap the Shrimp: While shrimp is the main protein in this recipe, you can use grilled chicken, scallops, or even a plant-based protein like tofu for a vegetarian version. Just be sure to season the protein well to enhance the flavor.
- Add More Vegetables: To boost the nutritional content, try adding roasted bell peppers, olives, spinach, or arugula. These vegetables add extra color, flavor, and texture, making the salad even more vibrant.
- Use Quinoa Instead of Orzo: If you prefer a gluten-free option, replace the orzo with cooked quinoa. Quinoa’s nutty flavor and fluffy texture make it an excellent substitute.
- Add Nuts for Crunch: For an extra crunch, toss in some toasted pine nuts, sliced almonds, or chopped walnuts. The nuttiness will complement the shrimp and pasta perfectly.
- Spicy Kick: If you like heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing, or include sliced jalapeños in the salad. This will add a bit of warmth to balance the freshness of the lemon and vegetables.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs! Dill and mint are both excellent additions that pair well with shrimp and will give the salad a unique twist.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 |
| Protein (g) | 30 |
| Carbs (g) | 28 |
| Fat (g) | 16 |
| Saturated Fat (g) | 3 |
| Fiber (g) | 3 |
| Sugar (g) | 5 |
| Sodium (mg) | 400 |
Expert Tips & Customizations
Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cooks very quickly, so keep an eye on them. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery, which you definitely want to avoid. As soon as they turn opaque, they’re done!
Make Ahead for Extra Flavor: This salad is even better after it’s had some time to sit. For maximum flavor, make it an hour ahead of time and let it chill in the fridge to allow all the ingredients to meld together.
Don’t Skimp on Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like basil and parsley are essential in this recipe. They brighten the dish and complement the shrimp beautifully. If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried ones won’t have quite the same impact, so fresh really makes a difference.
FAQs
How do I store leftovers of this salad?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just thaw the shrimp thoroughly before cooking to ensure they cook evenly.
Can I use a different pasta besides orzo?
Yes, you can use any small pasta, such as farfalle, rotini, or even gluten-free pasta if you prefer.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
You can make it gluten-free by swapping the orzo for quinoa or gluten-free pasta.
How do I make the salad spicier?
Add red pepper flakes to the dressing or mix in some diced jalapeños for an extra kick.
Can I use cooked shrimp?
Yes, pre-cooked shrimp can be used in this recipe. Just be sure to chill them before adding to the salad.
Can I prepare this salad the night before?
Yes, this salad can be made ahead. Let it chill in the fridge for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to develop.
How can I make this salad more filling?
Add a serving of avocado or more protein like grilled chicken or tofu to make the salad more substantial.
Can I use store-bought dressing?
While homemade dressing is simple to prepare, store-bought dressing can be used in a pinch. However, I recommend using a light vinaigrette for the best flavor.
How do I make the dressing creamier?
For a creamier dressing, add a spoonful of Greek yogurt or sour cream to the dressing.
Conclusion
Shrimp Orzo Pasta Salad is a versatile, delicious, and refreshing dish that works for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for a summer party or preparing it as part of your weekly meal prep, this dish is sure to become a favorite. The combination of tender shrimp, nutty orzo, and fresh vegetables tossed in a zesty lemon dressing makes for a light yet satisfying meal. With its customizable ingredients, you can easily adjust the salad to fit your tastes, making it a go-to recipe that will never go out of style.
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