Orzo Pasta Salad with Shrimp

Orzo Pasta Salad with Shrimp

Ingredients for the Pasta:

• 2 cups orzo
• Kosher salt

Ingredients for the Dressing:

• ½ cup lemon juice, freshly squeezed (You’ll need 3-4 lemons depending on their size)
• 3/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tsp. kosher salt
• ½ tsp. ground black pepper

Ingredients for the Shrimp:

• 1½ lbs. large shrimp, peeled and deveined (16-18 count)
• 2 Tbsp. olive oil
• ½ tsp. kosher salt
• ¼ tsp. ground black pepper

Ingredients for the Salad:

• 5-6 green onions, scallions, both white and green parts
• 1 cup fresh dill, chopped
• 1 cup fresh Italian parsley, chopped
• 1 English cucumber, medium diced — no need to peel
• ½ cup red onion, small diced
• 1 cup feta cheese, cut into 1-inch cubes

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 400 F.
2. FOR THE PASTA: Fill a large pot with water and 3 tablespoons of kosher salt and bring it to a boil. Add the orzo and let it simmer, stirring occasionally, until it is al dente, about 9 to 12 minutes. Drain and place into a large salad bowl.
3. FOR THE DRESSING: While the orzo is cooking, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, salt and pepper in a bowl. Pour dressing over the cooked orzo and set it aside.
4. FOR THE SHRIMP: Place shrimp, olive oil, salt and pepper in a bowl and give it a gentle toss. Transfer the shrimp onto a sheet pan in a single layer. Roast in the oven until it is cooked through, 5 to 6 minutes. Remove the shrimp from the oven.
5. TO ASSEMBLE SALAD: Add cooked shrimp, green onions, dill, parsley, cucumber and red onion to the bowl with orzo. Give it a toss. Add feta on top. Taste and add any additional seasoning needed.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least an hour for flavors to blend. Serve.