Best 2 Mediterranean Shrimp Orzo Salad Recipes

# **Tantalizing Mediterranean Shrimp Orzo Salad: A Journey of Flavors**

Embark on a culinary adventure to the sun-kissed shores of the Mediterranean with this tantalizing shrimp orzo salad. This vibrant dish combines the freshness of the sea, the heartiness of orzo pasta, and an array of colorful vegetables, all harmoniously blended in a zesty dressing. Dive into the flavors of the Mediterranean as you savor each bite of this delectable salad.

This Mediterranean shrimp orzo salad recipe offers a symphony of flavors and textures. Succulent shrimp, cooked to perfection, mingle with tender orzo pasta, while crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, sweet bell peppers, and briny olives add a delightful crunch and freshness. The zesty dressing, made with a blend of lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and herbs, brings all the ingredients together in a vibrant harmony.

In addition to the classic shrimp orzo salad, this article presents a medley of variations to suit diverse tastes and dietary preferences. For seafood enthusiasts, the salmon orzo salad offers a luscious alternative to shrimp, while the tuna orzo salad provides a lighter and flakier protein option. Vegetarians can delight in the meatless orzo salad, which boasts a hearty combination of roasted vegetables and feta cheese.

For those seeking a gluten-free option, the quinoa orzo salad offers a delicious and nutritious substitute for orzo pasta. And for a vegan twist, the vegan orzo salad features a creamy tahini dressing and a colorful array of plant-based ingredients.

Whether you're hosting a summer barbecue, planning a picnic, or simply seeking a refreshing and flavorful meal, this collection of Mediterranean shrimp orzo salad recipes has something for every occasion and palate. Join us on this culinary journey and discover the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean, one delectable bite at a time.

Check out the recipes below so you can choose the best recipe for yourself!

MEDITERRANEAN SHRIMP AND ORZO SALAD

Mediterranean Shrimp and Orzo Salad image

Provided by Kelsey Nixon

Time 30m

Yield 8 servings

Number Of Ingredients 12

Ingredients

Kosher salt
Half a 1-pound box orzo
1 pint grape tomatoes, quartered
8 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup plus 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
1/4 cup chopped fresh dill, plus more for garnish
1/2 English cucumber (seedless), peeled and chopped
1/2 red onion, finely diced
1/2 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest
Juice of 1/2 lemon, plus more for sprinkling
1 pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
Cracked black pepper

Steps:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the orzo until tender. Drain, rinse under cold water, drain again and transfer to a large bowl. Add the tomatoes, feta, 1/4 cup oil, dill, cucumbers, onions, lemon zest and juice, and toss to coat. Season with salt and pepper.
Sprinkle the shrimp with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook, stirring, until the shrimp are no longer pink, 2 to 3 minutes. Remove from the heat and sprinkle the shrimp with a little lemon juice. Add the shrimp to the orzo and toss. Taste the salad and season with more salt and pepper if desired.

MEDITERRANEAN SHRIMP ORZO SALAD

Mediterranean Shrimp Orzo Salad image

This pretty crowd-pleaser always stands out on the buffet table. With plenty of shrimp, artichoke hearts, olives, peppers and a host of herbs, it's a tasty change of pace from pasta salads. I serve it with a from-scratch vinaigrette. -Ginger Johnson, Pottstown, Pennsylvania

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories Lunch

Time 30m

Yield 8 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 10

Ingredients

1 package (16 ounces) orzo pasta
3/4 pound peeled and deveined cooked shrimp (31-40 per pound)
1 can (14 ounces) water-packed quartered artichoke hearts, rinsed and drained
1 cup finely chopped green pepper
1 cup finely chopped sweet red pepper
3/4 cup finely chopped red onion
1/2 cup pitted Greek olives
1/2 cup minced fresh parsley
1/3 cup chopped fresh dill
3/4 cup Greek vinaigrette

Steps:

Cook orzo according to package directions. Drain; rinse with cold water and drain well., In a large bowl, combine orzo, shrimp, vegetables, olives and herbs. Add vinaigrette; toss to coat. Refrigerate, covered, until serving.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 397 calories, Fat 12g fat (2g saturated fat), Cholesterol 65mg cholesterol, Sodium 574mg sodium, Carbohydrate 52g carbohydrate (4g sugars, Fiber 3g fiber), Protein 18g protein.

Tips:

Mise en Place: Before starting to cook, measure and prepare all of your ingredients to ensure a smooth cooking process.
Fresh Ingredients: Use the freshest ingredients available for the best flavor. Look for plump, brightly colored shrimp, firm and colorful bell peppers, and crisp and tender orzo.
Cook Orzo Al Dente: Make sure to cook the orzo al dente, which means it should be tender but still have a slight bite to it. This will prevent it from becoming mushy in the salad.
Season Generously: Don't be afraid to season the salad generously with salt, pepper, and herbs. This will help bring out the flavors of the ingredients.
Let the Salad Marinate: Allow the salad to marinate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This will help the flavors meld together and develop.

Conclusion:

This Mediterranean shrimp orzo salad is a delicious and refreshing meal that is perfect for summer gatherings. It is packed with fresh, flavorful ingredients and is easy to make. Whether you serve it as a main course or a side dish, this salad is sure to be a hit. Enjoy!