Looking for a refreshing and vibrant dish that embodies the flavors of summer? Dive into our Shrimp Orzo Salad with Pesto, a delightful Italian-inspired recipe that promises to tantalize your taste buds! With tender shrimp, al dente orzo, and a burst of fresh cherry tomatoes, this salad is not only quick to prepare but also perfect for any occasion—from a light lunch to a stunning side dish at your next gathering. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this colorful, flavorful masterpiece that takes just 25 minutes to make!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz orzo pasta
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh basil pesto
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and add a pinch of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Add orzo pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, until the pasta is al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare the shrimp. Pat the peeled and deveined shrimp dry with paper towels to ensure proper seasoning and searing.
- Season the shrimp with salt and pepper. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil.
- Cook the shrimp in the hot skillet for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and are just cooked through. Avoid overcooking to maintain tenderness.
- Drain the cooked orzo in a colander and rinse briefly with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled orzo, cooked shrimp, halved cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil pesto. Gently toss to ensure even coating.
- Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the salad and mix lightly to distribute evenly.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Cover the salad and refrigerate for 15-30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together before serving.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature, garnishing with additional fresh basil leaves if desired.
Tips
- Perfectly Cooked Orzo: Make sure to stir the orzo occasionally while it cooks to prevent it from sticking together. Aim for al dente texture for the best bite!
- Shrimp Searing: For the juiciest shrimp, ensure they are patted dry before seasoning. A hot skillet is key—don’t overcrowd the pan to achieve that perfect sear.
- Chill for Flavor: Allowing the salad to chill in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes enhances the flavors as they meld together beautifully.
- Customization: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or substitute the feta with goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
- Serving Suggestions: This salad can be served chilled or at room temperature, making it versatile for picnics or potlucks. Garnish with extra basil for a fresh touch!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 360kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 130mg
