Introduction
If you’re looking for a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings together the freshness of seafood and vegetables, this grilled shrimp with orzo salad is the perfect choice. Packed with zesty lime, crunchy corn, and hints of honey and chili oil, it’s a delightful meal that can be served warm or at room temperature. Ideal for summer gatherings or a cozy dinner, this recipe is sure to impress your guests or provide a satisfying family meal.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
2 pounds jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined
1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
1 lime, juiced and zested
1 pound orzo
1 1/2 cups corn
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
1 1/2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
2 teaspoons chili oil
1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time
15 minutes
Total Time
35 minutes
Yield
Serves 4-6
Directions
1. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, red wine vinegar, chili oil, extra-virgin olive oil, lime juice, and lime zest. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
2. Marinate the Shrimp: In a large bowl, combine the shrimp with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
3. Cook the Orzo: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and transfer to a large mixing bowl.
4. Prepare the Corn: If using fresh corn, you can grill it until charred and then cut the kernels off the cob. Alternatively, if using frozen corn, thaw and lightly sauté it in a pan until warmed through.
5. Grill the Shrimp: Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers. Grill for about 2 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are opaque and have grill marks. Remove from the grill and set aside.
6. Assemble the Dish: To the bowl with the cooked orzo, add the grilled corn kernels, crumbled feta cheese, chopped cilantro, and chives. Pour the prepared dressing over the mixture and toss to combine.
7. Serve: Divide the orzo mixture among serving plates or bowls. Top each serving with grilled shrimp. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, red wine vinegar, chili oil, extra-virgin olive oil, lime juice, and lime zest. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
Marinate the Shrimp
In a large bowl, combine the shrimp with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
Cook the Orzo
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and transfer to a large mixing bowl.
Prepare the Corn
If using fresh corn, grill it until charred and then cut the kernels off the cob. If using frozen corn, thaw and lightly sauté it in a pan until warmed through.
Grill the Shrimp
Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers. Grill for about 2 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are opaque and have grill marks. Remove from the grill and set aside.
Assemble the Dish
To the bowl with the cooked orzo, add the grilled corn kernels, crumbled feta cheese, chopped cilantro, and chives. Pour the prepared dressing over the mixture and toss to combine.
Serve
Divide the orzo mixture among serving plates or bowls. Top each serving with grilled shrimp. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
Shrimp Selection
Ensure the shrimp are fresh and of high quality; jumbo shrimp are recommended for their size and flavor.
Orzo Cooking Tips
Stir the orzo occasionally while cooking to prevent it from sticking together.
Fresh Corn Preparation
If using fresh corn, grilling enhances the flavor. If unavailable, frozen corn is a convenient substitute.
Grilling Shrimp
Make sure the grill is properly heated before placing the shrimp to achieve the best grill marks and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This dish can be served warm or chilled, making it versatile for different occasions.
Cook techniques
Prepare the Dressing
In this step, you will combine various ingredients to create a flavorful dressing. Whisk together honey, red wine vinegar, chili oil, extra-virgin olive oil, lime juice, and zest. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.
Marinate the Shrimp
To infuse the shrimp with flavor, combine it with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Toss well to ensure each shrimp is evenly coated, allowing for a tastier grilling experience.
Cook the Orzo
Boil salted water and add the orzo. Follow the package instructions to achieve al dente texture. Once cooked, drain it and transfer it to a mixing bowl, ready for further assembly with other ingredients.
Prepare the Corn
For corn, you have the option to either grill fresh ears until charred and then cut the kernels off or use thawed frozen corn, sautéing it until warm. This adds a delightful, sweet crunch to your dish.
Grill the Shrimp
Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high. Thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers and grill them for about 2 minutes per side, until they turn opaque and have beautiful grill marks, enhancing both flavor and presentation.
Assemble the Dish
In the bowl with cooked orzo, add the grilled corn, crumbled feta cheese, chopped cilantro, and chives. Pour the previously prepared dressing over the mixture and toss everything together to ensure it’s well combined and flavorful.
Serve
Scoop the orzo mixture onto plates or bowls, then top each with grilled shrimp. This dish can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making it versatile for any occasion.
FAQ
What type of shrimp should I use for this recipe?
Jumbo shrimp are recommended for their size and tenderness, which will grill well and provide a satisfying bite.
Can I substitute orzo with another grain?
Yes, you can use alternatives like quinoa, couscous, or even pasta, but be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.
How do I store leftovers?
Store the leftover dish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before serving.
Can this recipe be made in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the orzo and dressing ahead of time but add the shrimp and corn when ready to serve for the best texture.
What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs well with a light salad or grilled vegetables to complement the flavors of the shrimp and orzo.
Conclusion
This vibrant shrimp and orzo dish offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, from the fresh herbs and zesty lime to the sweetness of corn and tangy feta. Perfect for a summer gathering or a weeknight dinner, it’s sure to impress with its colorful presentation and delicious taste.
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