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–+ servings
shrimp orzo pasta salad with Italian Dressing and vegetables in a white bowl

Shrimp Orzo Pasta Salad

This Shrimp Orzo Salad recipe is a delicious and healthy salad that combines tender, succulent shrimp with pasta, fresh vegetables, and Italian dressing. It's the perfect meal for when you want something light and refreshing. Add this to your summer cookout and BBQ spreads.
5 from 5 votes
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course dinner, lunch
Cuisine American
Servings 2 servings
Calories 632 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 4 oz dry orzo
  • 10-12 oz raw shrimp Diced into chunks if preferred.
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning
  • salt to taste
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil
  • 1/4-1/3 cup Italian salad dressing Start with 1/4 cup and add additional dressing if you feel it's needed.
  • 1/2 cup diced cucumbers
  • 1/4 cup chopped onions
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese

Instructions
 

  • Cook the orzo in accordance with the directions on the package. Drain the orzo and add it to a bowl.
  • Ensure the shrimp is completely dry. Sprinkle both sides of the shrimp with lemon pepper and salt to taste. Rub the spices into the shrimp.
  • Add 1 teaspoon of olive oil to a skillet on medium-high heat.
  • When hot, add the seasoned shrimp. Do not overcrowd the pan. The shrimp shouldn’t touch. Cook the shrimp in batches if needed.
  • Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until the shrimp is cooked through. It will turn opaque at the center. The shrimp will form a C shape when fully cooked.
    Air Fryer Instructions: Air fry the shrimp at 400 degrees for 6-8 minutes or until it is pink and opaque.
  • Add the cooked orzo, cooked shrimp, and remaining ingredients to a mixing bowl. Stir to combine the ingredients.
  • Serve immediately or chill for 30 minutes prior to serving.

Notes

If serving this dish for a crowd, you can easily double or triple all of the ingredients.
I like to serve this as an actual meal instead of a side dish. 
Feel free to modify the servings of any of the ingredients to suit your taste. Use more or less cheese, etc. 
Lemon pepper can be substituted with any of your favorite spices.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 632kcalCarbohydrates: 52gProtein: 32gFat: 32g
Keyword shrimp orzo pasta, shrimp orzo salad, shrimp pasta salad, shrimp summer salad, shrimp with Italian dressing
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