Ah, let me tell you about my absolute favorite summer dish that brings a taste of the Mediterranean right into my kitchen—Greek Orzo Pasta Salad with Grilled Shrimp! This recipe is like a bright, sunny day on a plate, and it has a special place in my heart because it reminds me of hot summer afternoons spent at my grandmother’s picnic table, surrounded by family and laughter. My love for fresh, flavorful ingredients never tires, and this salad is the perfect example of that.
If you’ve ever wandered into a Greek taverna and been swept away by the delicious scents of grilled seafood and fresh herbs, then this dish will transport you right back there. With plump shrimp, chewy orzo, and a vibrant mix of veggies and herbs, every bite is bursting with flavor. Plus, it’s super easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time—perfect for those busy weeknights or weekend barbecues!
What’s in Greek Orzo Pasta Salad with Grilled Shrimp?
Let’s dive into the ingredients that make this dish so amazing:
Orzo Pasta: The star of the dish! This tiny pasta is shaped like rice and adds a delightful texture to the salad. It’s filling yet light, making it a perfect base.
Shrimp: I recommend using large shrimp for this recipe. They’re meaty, delicious, and grill up beautifully with great flavor. Fresh or frozen works, just make sure they’re peeled and deveined!
Olive Oil: A staple in Greek cooking! It brings richness to the dish, and I like to use extra virgin for its robust flavor.
Lemon Juice: This zesty addition brightens everything up and balances the richness of the olive oil and feta cheese.
Garlic Powder: A little sprinkle goes a long way, adding warmth and depth. Plus, it’s so much easier than chopping fresh garlic!
Cherry Tomatoes: Sweet and juicy, these gems add color and freshness. Halving them allows their juices to mingle with the pasta.
Cucumber: Cool and crisp, diced cucumber adds a refreshing crunch that complements the other ingredients.
Red Onion: Finely chopped, it livens up the salad with a bit of bite and color.
Kalamata Olives: Essential for a Greek flavor, these olives bring a salty brininess that elevates the taste profile beautifully.
Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta is a must! It adds creaminess and tang, which just makes everything better.
Fresh Herbs (Parsley & Dill): These herbs enhance the dish with their brightness. Fresh is always better, but dried works in a pinch.
Green Onions: They add a milder onion flavor and a pop of color to the salad.
Is Greek Orzo Pasta Salad with Grilled Shrimp Good for You?
This salad can be a wonderful addition to your meal rotation! It’s loaded with fresh vegetables, protein, and healthy fats.
Shrimp: These little critters are a great source of protein and low in calories, making them a fantastic choice for a fulfilling meal.
Orzo: While it’s a carbohydrate, opting for whole wheat or gluten-free orzo can make this dish even healthier if that’s your jam!
Olive Oil: Rich in monounsaturated fats, it’s heart-healthy and has anti-inflammatory properties. Just remember, moderation is key!
All those vibrant veggies mean you’re getting vitamins and minerals galore! The only downside might be the feta cheese if you’re watching your sodium intake, but feel free to adjust based on your preferences.
Ingredients
This recipe serves about 4-6 people, perfect for a small gathering!
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
– 1 teaspoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cucumber, diced
– 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, sliced
– 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
– 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
How to Make Greek Orzo Pasta Salad with Grilled Shrimp?
Ready to whip up some magic? Let’s do this!
1. Start by cooking the orzo pasta according to the package instructions. Once done, drain it and rinse it under cold water to cool. Set it aside while we work on the shrimp.
2. In a bowl, toss your shrimp with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Let it marinate for about 15 minutes. Trust me, the flavors will soak in beautifully!
3. Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. When hot, grill the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are opaque and just cooked through. Once grilled, remove them and let them cool slightly.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled orzo, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, parsley, dill, and green onions.
5. Drizzle the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over everything and toss well to combine. Don’t forget to taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed!
6. Finally, top the salad with the grilled shrimp and gently toss to incorporate it all.
7. Serve immediately for the freshest taste, or if you have the time, refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let those flavors meld together.
Tasty Tips & Serving Suggestions
Let’s jazz things up a bit! Here are some of my favorite suggestions:
– For a little kick, toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes when grilling your shrimp.
– Add some artichoke hearts for an added layer of flavor.
– Want a heartier meal? Serve this salad on a bed of arugula or spinach for some leafy greens!
– This salad keeps well in the fridge, so it’s perfect for meal prep!
I can’t tell you how much joy this dish brings me. It’s fresh, light, and perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a casual lunch or a backyard barbecue. I encourage you to give it a try and let me know how it turns out! Trust me, you’ll be getting requests for this one again and again. Enjoy every delicious bite!
