Greek-Style Lemony Grilled Shrimp Orzo Salad

Introduction

Greek-Style Lemony Grilled Shrimp Orzo Salad is a dish that perfectly captures the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean. It has everything you could want in a salad: juicy grilled shrimp, tender orzo pasta, crisp veggies, and a fresh, tangy dressing that ties everything together. This salad is a crowd-pleaser at any meal—whether it’s a light lunch, dinner, or a side dish for a barbecue.

The best part? It’s easy to make, and it can be served either chilled or at room temperature, making it incredibly versatile. I recently made it for a family gathering, and everyone loved it. The shrimp had just the right amount of seasoning, the orzo was zesty and perfectly cooked, and the combination of cucumbers, tomatoes, and olives gave it the perfect Mediterranean flavor. The fresh herbs added a burst of brightness that made every bite delightful. Whether you’re hosting a summer party or just craving something light and refreshing, this Greek-style orzo salad is a perfect choice!

Why You’ll Love This Greek-Style Lemony Grilled Shrimp Orzo Salad

This Greek-Style Lemony Grilled Shrimp Orzo Salad is more than just a salad—it’s a complete meal in itself. It’s vibrant, full of fresh flavors, and loaded with healthy ingredients. Here’s why you’ll love this recipe:

• Fresh Mediterranean Flavors: The combination of grilled shrimp, juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese brings the Mediterranean to your plate. The lemony dressing with fresh herbs makes every bite refreshing and flavorful.
• Light yet Satisfying: It’s filling enough to be a standalone meal but light enough to be served as a side dish. The orzo pasta adds a hearty element, while the shrimp provides protein.
• Easy to Make: The recipe is simple, and the ingredients are easy to find. The shrimp is grilled to perfection in just a few minutes, and the orzo is quickly tossed with a tangy lemon dressing.
• Customizable: You can add more vegetables, change up the protein, or even toss in some extra flavor boosters like olives or avocado. This recipe is highly adaptable to your taste.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner, a summer barbecue, or a potluck, this dish will be a hit. It’s great served chilled or at room temperature, which makes it a perfect make-ahead option.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for a bit of spice)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Salad:

• 1 cup orzo (or your favorite short pasta)
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives (optional)
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled or cubed (or substitute goat cheese or bocconcini)

For the Dressing:

• Zest and juice of 2–3 lemons (start with 1 and adjust to taste)
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Fresh Herbs:

• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the Orzo:
   Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to the package instructions. Drain and transfer to a large bowl.
2. Dress the Orzo:
   While the orzo is still warm, add the olive oil, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Toss well to coat the orzo. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it cool while you prepare the shrimp and other ingredients.
3. Season and Grill the Shrimp:
   In a bowl, toss the shrimp with paprika, oregano, chili flakes, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and olive oil. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Grill the shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side or until pink and cooked through. Set aside.
4. Assemble the Salad:
   Add the diced cucumbers, thinly sliced red onion, halved tomatoes, Kalamata olives (if using), and feta cheese to the bowl with the orzo. Toss in the grilled shrimp and mix gently to combine.
5. Add Fresh Herbs:
   Sprinkle the chopped dill, parsley, and mint (if using) over the salad. Toss lightly to distribute the herbs evenly.
6. Serve:
   Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature. Garnish with additional lemon zest or herbs if desired. This dish pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a side of tzatziki sauce.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Serving Size: 1 bowl
• Calories: 380 kcal
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 5g
• Protein: 18g
• Cholesterol: 170mg
• Sodium: 550mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

How to Serve

This Greek-Style Lemony Grilled Shrimp Orzo Salad is incredibly versatile, and you can serve it in a variety of ways:

• As a main dish: Serve the salad as a standalone meal for lunch or dinner.
• With sides: Pair with crusty bread or pita for a heartier meal.
• For a gathering: This salad works wonderfully for potlucks, barbecues, or family dinners.
• With a side of tzatziki: A cool, creamy tzatziki sauce pairs perfectly with the zesty salad.
• Chilled or room temperature: The salad is delicious both chilled and at room temperature, making it perfect for meal prepping or making ahead for a party.

Additional Tips

1. Protein Additions: For extra protein, you can add chickpeas or white beans to the salad. These will add texture and make it even more filling.
2. Creamy Option: Add diced avocado just before serving for a creamy texture and a slight richness that complements the lemony dressing.
3. Make Ahead: You can prepare the salad up to 1 day in advance, but make sure to add the shrimp and fresh herbs just before serving to maintain freshness.
4. Customize the Vegetables: Feel free to swap out or add more veggies to suit your taste—zucchini, bell peppers, or even roasted eggplant would make great additions.
5. Grilling the Shrimp: If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the shrimp in a grill pan or even on the stovetop in a skillet.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute orzo with other short pasta like fusilli, penne, or farfalle. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

2. Can I make the salad without shrimp?
Absolutely! You can omit the shrimp and substitute it with grilled chicken, chickpeas, or a different protein of your choice.

3. How long will the salad keep in the refrigerator?
The salad will last in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, it’s best to add the shrimp and fresh herbs right before serving for optimal freshness.

4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the orzo and dressing in advance, and store them in the fridge. Add the shrimp and fresh herbs right before serving for the best results.

5. Can I use a store-bought dressing?
While a store-bought dressing can work in a pinch, homemade lemon dressing really enhances the flavors of this dish and is quick to prepare.

6. How can I make this dish spicier?
You can increase the chili flakes in the shrimp seasoning or add some fresh chili peppers to the salad for an extra kick.

7. Can I add more vegetables?
Yes, feel free to add more vegetables such as roasted bell peppers, cucumbers, or even olives for added flavor and texture.

8. How do I make the salad vegan?
To make this salad vegan, omit the shrimp and feta cheese. You can substitute the feta with a vegan cheese alternative or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

9. Can I grill the shrimp without marinating?
Yes, the shrimp can be grilled without marinating. However, the seasoning helps to infuse more flavor, so it’s highly recommended.

10. Can I use a different cheese?
Yes, goat cheese or bocconcini can be great alternatives to feta if you prefer a different cheese.

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