Shrimp and Orzo Salad 🍤
Overview:
Looking for a quick and easy meal bursting with flavor? Try this delightful Shrimp and Orzo Salad recipe! Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this dish is a breeze to make and a joy to share with loved ones. With a combination of tender shrimp, hearty orzo pasta, and a medley of fresh veggies, tossed in a zesty herb-infused dressing, every bite is a tantalizing treat for your taste buds. Plus, with a prep time of just 20 minutes and a total cook time of only 15 minutes, you can have this scrumptious salad ready to serve in just over half an hour! Let’s dive into the recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1/3 cup red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (divided)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 green pepper, diced
- 1 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 pound medium shrimp, cooked and peeled
- 2 tomatoes, diced
Instructions:
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1. | Cook Orzo: Cook the orzo pasta according to the package instructions, omitting salt and fat. Drain well and set aside to cool. |
| 2. | Prepare Dressing: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the red wine vinegar, dried basil, olive oil, dried oregano, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and black pepper until well combined. This flavorful dressing will infuse every bite of the salad with deliciousness! |
| 3. | Combine Ingredients: To the bowl with the dressing, add the cooked and cooled orzo pasta, diced tomatoes, diced green pepper, chopped red onion, chopped fresh parsley, and cooked shrimp. Toss everything together gently until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing. The vibrant colors and textures of the ingredients make this salad as visually appealing as it is delicious! |
| 4. | Chill and Serve: Once everything is well combined, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Chilling also helps to enhance the freshness of the ingredients, making each bite even more enjoyable! |
| 5. | Serve and Enjoy: After chilling, give the salad a final toss to redistribute the dressing, then serve it up on plates or in bowls. Garnish with additional chopped parsley or a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper if desired. This Shrimp and Orzo Salad is best enjoyed fresh, so dig in and savor the sensational flavors with every forkful! |
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 431.5
- Fat: 20.1g
- Saturated Fat: 2.8g
- Cholesterol: 143.2mg
- Sodium: 656.4mg
- Carbohydrates: 39.6g
- Fiber: 3.5g
- Sugar: 5.1g
- Protein: 22.4g
Serving Suggestions:
This Shrimp and Orzo Salad is a complete meal on its own, but you can also serve it alongside crusty bread or garlic breadsticks for a more substantial spread. For a refreshing beverage pairing, consider serving it with a chilled glass of white wine or a crisp citrus-infused iced tea. Whether enjoyed as a light lunch, a satisfying dinner, or a delightful side dish, this salad is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation!
Tips and Variations:
- Make it Ahead: This salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before serving. Just be sure to give it a good toss before serving to redistribute the dressing.
- Customize the Veggies: Feel free to customize the vegetables in this salad based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Try adding diced cucumbers, sliced black olives, or roasted red peppers for extra flavor and crunch.
- Add a Kick: For a spicy twist, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes over the salad before serving. The heat will add an extra layer of excitement to every bite!
- Make it Vegan: Simply omit the shrimp or substitute it with grilled tofu or chickpeas for a vegan-friendly version of this salad.
Conclusion:
With its vibrant colors, bold flavors, and easy preparation, this Shrimp and Orzo Salad is a must-try recipe for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, packing a picnic lunch, or simply craving a light and satisfying meal, this salad delivers on taste and convenience every time. So gather your ingredients, whip up a batch, and get ready to enjoy a taste of culinary bliss with every forkful of this delicious dish!
