Imagine a dish that captures the essence of summer in every single bite - light, refreshing, and bursting with flavor! This Shrimp and Pea Orzo Pasta Salad is not just a recipe, it's a culinary adventure that transforms simple ingredients into a mouthwatering masterpiece. Whether you're planning a picnic, a quick weeknight dinner, or looking to impress your guests, this recipe promises to be your new go-to summer sensation that'll have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and bring to a rolling boil. Add a pinch of salt to the water.
- Add orzo pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- During the last 2 minutes of pasta cooking, add frozen peas to the same pot to blanch them quickly.
- While pasta is cooking, prepare the shrimp. Pat shrimp dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
- Drain the orzo and peas in a colander, then rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled orzo and peas, cooked shrimp, chopped parsley, remaining olive oil, and lemon juice.
- Gently toss all ingredients together, ensuring even coating and distribution of flavors.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld before serving.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature as a refreshing pasta salad.
Tips
- For the most tender shrimp, avoid overcooking - they should be just pink and opaque.
- Rinse pasta with cold water to stop cooking and prevent clumping.
- Let the salad chill for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to develop and meld together.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the brightest, most vibrant flavor.
- For extra texture, consider adding toasted pine nuts or crumbled feta cheese.
- If using frozen shrimp, thaw completely and pat dry before cooking to ensure proper searing.
- This salad can be made a day ahead, making it perfect for meal prep or entertaining.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 180mg
