Zesty Greek Lemony Grilled Shrimp Orzo Salad Recipe

Mediterranean summers dance with vibrant greek-style lemony grilled shrimp orzo salad flavors that spark culinary excitement.

Crisp ingredients mingle in a refreshing coastal melody.

Zesty herbs and tender shrimp create a perfect plate of sunshine.

Bright lemon notes weave through each delightful bite, promising an escape to seaside charm.

Seafood enthusiasts will adore this light yet satisfying meal that celebrates simple, fresh ingredients.

Salty, tangy, and utterly irresistible, this dish invites you to savor every delectable forkful.

Let’s whisk you away to a Greek island with just one delicious serving.

What Makes Greek-Style Lemony Grilled Shrimp Orzo Salad Special

• Whip Up Mediterranean Magic: Reasons to Love This Recipe
• Grill-Friendly Feast: Master a restaurant-quality dish with minimal cooking skills that transforms simple ingredients into a spectacular meal in under 30 minutes.
• Weekend Party Pleaser: Perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, and outdoor events where guests crave fresh, vibrant flavors that celebrate Mediterranean cuisine.
• Quick Protein Powerhouse: Pack incredible nutrition with succulent grilled shrimp, protein-rich orzo, and a rainbow of fresh vegetables delivering balanced, wholesome goodness in every delicious bite.
• Flexible Flavor Adventure: Easily customize by swapping proteins, adjusting spice levels, or substituting ingredients to match personal taste preferences without compromising the recipe's core deliciousness.

Ingredients for Greek-Style Lemony Grilled Shrimp Orzo Salad

• Orzo: Small rice-shaped pasta that serves as the hearty foundation of the salad, perfect for absorbing flavors.

• Shrimp: Fresh, medium-sized seafood that adds protein and pairs wonderfully with Mediterranean seasonings.

• Paprika: Warm, sweet spice that gives a subtle smoky flavor to the shrimp.
• Oregano: Classic Greek herb that provides an authentic Mediterranean taste.
• Chili Flakes: Adds a gentle heat and vibrant color to the dish.
• Garlic Powder: Provides a rich, savory undertone to the shrimp.
• Salt, Pepper: Essential seasoning to enhance overall flavor profile.

• Cucumber, Tomatoes: Crisp, juicy vegetables that add freshness and texture to the salad.
• Red Onion: Sharp, pungent ingredient that provides a zesty crunch.
• Olives: Briny Mediterranean ingredient that adds depth and saltiness.

• Feta Cheese: Tangy, crumbly Greek cheese that brings a creamy and salty element.

• Dill, Parsley, Mint: Fresh herbs that contribute bright, aromatic notes to the salad.

• Olive Oil: Smooth, rich base that helps bind and flavor the salad.
• Lemon Zest, Lemon Juice: Citrusy components that add brightness and tanginess.

How to Build a Greek Shrimp Orzo Salad

Step 1: Boil Orzo Perfectly

Pour water into a large pot and add a generous pinch of salt.

Bring the water to a rolling boil.

Drop the orzo into the bubbling water and cook following the package directions until the pasta reaches an al dente texture.

Drain the orzo completely in a colander and transfer to a spacious mixing bowl.

Step 2: Infuse Orzo with Citrus Flavors

While the orzo is still warm and steamy, drizzle olive oil over the pasta.

Grate fresh lemon zest directly into the bowl and squeeze in bright lemon juice.

Toss the orzo gently to ensure every grain gets coated with the zesty mixture.

Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Allow the orzo to cool and absorb the tangy flavors.

Step 3: Spice and Grill the Shrimp

• Paprika
• Dried oregano
• Red chili flakes
• Garlic powder
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Olive oil

Tumble the shrimp into a mixing bowl and sprinkle the spices over them.

Drizzle olive oil and massage the seasonings into the shrimp.

Heat a grill or grill pan to medium-high temperature.

Arrange the shrimp on the hot surface and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and develop beautiful char marks.

Step 4: Build the Mediterranean Salad

• Crisp cucumber chunks
• Thinly sliced red onion
• Juicy cherry tomatoes
• Briny kalamata olives
• Crumbled feta cheese

Gently fold the grilled shrimp into the salad, ensuring an even distribution of ingredients.

Step 5: Finish with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped fresh dill
• Roughly torn parsley
• Delicate mint leaves

Toss the salad lightly to distribute the herbs throughout.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Present the salad chilled or at room temperature.

For an extra touch, sprinkle additional lemon zest or herb leaves on top.

Complement the dish with crusty bread or a cool tzatziki sauce for a complete Mediterranean dining experience.

Orzo Salad Enhancements for a Greek-Style Touch

• Let shrimp sit in seasoning mix for 15-20 minutes before grilling to enhance flavor absorption and ensure every bite is packed with Greek-inspired zest.
• Rinse orzo with cold water after cooking to stop the cooking process and prevent overcooking, which helps maintain ideal al dente texture.
• Add cucumber and tomatoes just before serving to keep vegetables crisp and prevent soggy salad consistency.
• Easily substitute shrimp with grilled chicken, tofu, or skip protein for a delightful vegetarian version that maintains Mediterranean essence.
• Allow grilled shrimp to cool slightly before mixing into salad to prevent wilting fresh herbs and maintain vibrant, fresh ingredients' integrity.

Reheat Greek-Style Lemony Shrimp Orzo Salad

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days, keeping shrimp and orzo fresh in the fridge.
• Spread salad on a shallow dish before refrigerating to help cool it down faster and prevent bacterial growth.
• Warm gently in microwave at 50% power for 30-45 seconds, stirring midway to distribute heat evenly and prevent rubbery shrimp.
• Consume cold or at room temperature for optimal flavor, as reheating might slightly compromise the salad's texture and freshness.

Sidekicks for Lemony Shrimp Orzo Salad

• Pair Wine: Select crisp, light-bodied white wines like Assyrtiko or Sauvignon Blanc that complement the bright lemony seafood flavors and cut through the richness of feta.
• Refresh with Beverage: Craft a Greek-inspired cocktail using ouzo or mastiha liqueur mixed with sparkling water and fresh lemon, mirroring the salad's zesty Mediterranean profile.
• Match Side Companion: Serve warm pita bread brushed with olive oil and sprinkled with za'atar to provide a perfect textural contrast and additional Mediterranean authenticity to the dish.
• Enhance Flavor Layer: Include a classic Greek tzatziki sauce on the side, offering a cool, creamy counterpoint to the grilled shrimp and adding depth to each bite's overall taste experience.

Shrimp Orzo Salad Ingredient Swaps

• Mediterranean Vegetarian Version: Replace shrimp with grilled halloumi cheese, maintain all original spices and herbs for a protein-packed vegetarian alternative.
• Gluten-Free Option: Swap orzo with quinoa or cauliflower rice, ensuring the same lemony flavor profile while keeping the dish celiac-friendly and nutritious.
• Spicy Seafood Remix: Upgrade the protein by using a mix of grilled shrimp and calamari, increasing chili flakes for extra heat and complexity in the Mediterranean-inspired salad.
• Low-Carb Adaptation: Substitute orzo with finely chopped zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice, preserving the original Greek seasoning and fresh herb combinations for a lighter meal option.

FAQs

• What type of shrimp works best for this recipe?

Large or medium-sized shrimp are ideal. Peeled and deveined shrimp save time and ensure easier eating. Wild-caught or fresh shrimp provide the best flavor and texture for this Greek-style dish.

• How spicy is this salad with chili flakes?

The chili flakes add a mild, subtle heat that doesn’t overpower the other ingredients. You can adjust the amount of chili flakes to suit your personal spice preference – use less for a milder flavor or more if you enjoy extra kick.

• Can I make this salad ahead of time?

You can prepare the orzo and grill the shrimp in advance. However, add fresh herbs and mix ingredients just before serving to maintain the best texture and flavor. The salad stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

• Is this dish gluten-free?

This recipe is not gluten-free due to the orzo pasta, which contains wheat. To make it gluten-free, substitute orzo with gluten-free alternatives like quinoa or rice pasta.

Greek-Style Lemony Grilled Shrimp Orzo Salad Recipe

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4.6 from 27 reviews

• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Mediterranean summers dance through Greek-style Lemony Grilled Shrimp Orzo Salad, blending zesty citrus with succulent seafood. Crisp herbs and tangy feta create a refreshing journey that transports you straight to a seaside taverna in Greece.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein:

• 1 pound (454 grams) shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled or cubed (or substitute goat cheese or bocconcini)

Main Ingredients:

• 1 cup orzo (or your favorite short pasta)
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives (optional)

Seasonings and Herbs:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Zest and juice of 2-3 lemons (start with 1 and adjust to taste)
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped (optional)

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Instructions

1. Prepare orzo by boiling in generously salted water until tender, following package guidelines. Drain and transfer to a spacious mixing vessel.
2. Infuse warm orzo with fragrant lemon zest, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. Gently toss to ensure even coating, then season with salt and cracked black pepper. Allow mixture to cool and develop flavors.
3. Create a vibrant marinade for shrimp by combining smoky paprika, aromatic oregano, zesty chili flakes, pungent garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Massage marinade into shrimp with a touch of olive oil to enhance absorption.
4. Heat grill or grill pan to medium-high temperature. Place marinated shrimp on hot surface, cooking approximately 2-3 minutes per side until they transform to a beautiful pink hue and achieve perfect doneness.
5. Combine cooled orzo with crisp cucumber chunks, thinly sliced red onion, juicy tomato segments, briny kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese. Gently integrate grilled shrimp into the mixture.
6. Elevate the salad’s aromatic profile by scattering freshly chopped dill, parsley, and mint throughout. Delicately fold herbs to distribute evenly.
7. Present the salad chilled or at ambient temperature. Optional garnish of additional lemon zest or herb sprigs adds visual appeal. Complement with crusty artisan bread or traditional tzatziki for a complete Mediterranean experience.

Notes

• Prep shrimp quickly by patting them dry before seasoning to ensure perfect grill marks and prevent steaming.
• Customize heat levels by adjusting chili flakes or using smoked paprika for deeper flavor complexity.
• Make ahead by storing orzo and shrimp separately to maintain texture and prevent soggy salad.
• Transform into vegetarian option by replacing shrimp with grilled halloumi cheese or roasted chickpeas for protein boost.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Greek

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 52 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 22 g
• Cholesterol: 170 mg