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Lemon Herb Shrimp Orzo Salad with Feta and Cherry Tomatoes

A close-up view of a bowl filled with amazing shrimp orzo salad featuring plump shrimp, cherry tomatoes, and feta cheese.

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This is a light, fresh, and easy shrimp orzo salad perfect for a summer lunch or a make-ahead dinner side dish. It uses a tangy lemon vinaigrette and common pantry staples.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
  • 1 English cucumber, diced
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the orzo pasta according to package directions. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
  2. Season the shrimp lightly with salt and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  3. While the orzo cools, prepare the lemon dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining 3 tablespoons of olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, and dried oregano. Season with salt and pepper.
  4. In a large bowl, combine the cooled orzo, halved tomatoes, diced cucumber, crumbled feta, chopped parsley, and chopped dill.
  5. Add the cooked shrimp to the bowl.
  6. Pour the lemon dressing over the salad. Toss gently until all ingredients are evenly coated.
  7. Chill the shrimp orzo salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to blend.

Notes

  • For a make-ahead option, prepare the dressing and cook the orzo up to one day in advance. Combine all ingredients just before serving.
  • If you prefer a slightly creamier texture without mayonnaise, add 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard to the lemon dressing mixture.
  • This recipe works well with pre-cooked, chilled shrimp if you need a quicker assembly time.

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