Garlic Shrimp & Orzo Salad
I enjoy cold pasta salads and rice salads, so I decided to make one with orzo, a rice-shaped pasta. Feel free to add other favorite veggies—like asparagus and green beans—and serve with rolls or pita bread.
I enjoy cold pasta salads and rice salads, so I decided to make one with orzo, a rice-shaped pasta. Feel free to add other favorite veggies—like asparagus and green beans—and serve with rolls or pita bread.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup white wine
- salad:
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 1 small green pepper chopped
- 1 medium tomato seeded and chopped
- 1 pound uncooked large shrimp peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh cilantro
- 3/4 cup uncooked orzo pasta
- 1/2 cup chopped peeled cucumber
- 1 can (2-1/4 ounces) sliced ripe olives, drained, optio
- Carbohydrate 15.2585166859459 g
- Cholesterol 236.593155375 mg
- Fat 6.04192684172843 g
- Fiber 0.873496376313611 g
- Protein 26.7343589781496 g
- Saturated Fat 1.00439215073862 g
- Serving Size 1 1 servings. (204g)
- Sodium 262.486586261466 mg
- Sugar 14.3850203096323 g
- Trans Fat 0.479520431773252 g
- Calories 229 calories
Step-by-step
- In a large bowl, combine the first five ingredients; toss to coat. Refrigerate, covered, up to 30 minutes.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Using a slotted spoon, add shrimp; cook and stir 2 minutes. Add wine; cook and stir 1-2 minutes longer or until shrimp turn pink. Remove to a shallow dish; refrigerate, covered, until cold.
- Cook orzo according to package directions. Drain; rinse with cold water. Transfer to a large bowl. Add vegetables, cilantro, chilled shrimp and olives if desired.
- In a small bowl, whisk the remaining ingredients until blended. Drizzle over salad; toss to coat. Refrigerate until serving.
A Simple Summer Salad for Busy Days
As a busy working mom, I'm always looking for quick and easy recipes that don't compromise on flavor. This Garlic Shrimp & Orzo Salad has become a staple in my household, perfect for those warm summer evenings when you don't want to spend hours in the kitchen. It’s incredibly versatile, allowing for customization based on what's fresh at the market or what I already have on hand. The best part? It tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prepping. The bright, citrusy notes of the lemon juice and olive oil blend seamlessly with the savory shrimp and herbaceous cilantro, creating a symphony of flavors in every bite.
The beauty of this salad lies in its simplicity. You don't need any fancy culinary skills to pull it off. It's a perfect dish to introduce to beginner cooks or to serve at a casual get-together. The orzo pasta provides a satisfying base, while the shrimp adds a protein punch, making it a complete and balanced meal. I often add other vegetables based on what’s in season – sometimes asparagus, green beans, or even bell peppers, to keep things exciting and to use up what's in my fridge. The slight tang of the red onion adds a nice bite, while the cucumber brings a refreshing crunch. The whole dish just comes together beautifully.
Why this recipe works for me: I love how adaptable this recipe is. Some days I’m short on time, so I use pre-cooked shrimp, saving valuable minutes. Other times, I’ll add feta cheese for extra richness, or a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts for added texture. It’s a fantastic recipe to build upon and make truly your own. Whether you’re enjoying it as a light lunch, a side dish at a barbecue, or a satisfying dinner after a long day, this Garlic Shrimp & Orzo Salad is sure to be a hit. Its refreshing flavors and simple preparation make it a perfect addition to any summer meal plan. It's also incredibly easy to transport, so it's great for potlucks or picnics. I often pack it up for work lunches throughout the week. It's both flavorful and convenient, and in my book, that’s a winning combination! Give it a try and you'll see what I mean!
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Add some cheese: Crumbled feta or goat cheese would be delicious additions.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve with crusty bread or grilled chicken for a heartier dish.
- Prep ahead: The salad tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prepping.
- Customize the veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like asparagus, bell peppers, or zucchini.
This Garlic Shrimp and Orzo Salad is more than just a recipe; it's a testament to the power of simple ingredients and quick preparation. In my hectic life, it is a small but significant victory, a delicious reminder that healthy and tasty food doesn't have to be complicated. It's a recipe I'll continue to make again and again.
