Mediterranean Shrimp and Feta Orzo Salad

Ingredients

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup cucumber, diced
• 1 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup kalamata olives, sliced
• 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice, freshly squeezed
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• to taste salt and pepper

• 1 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dijon mustard

1. 01
   Cook the orzo pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
2. 02
   In a large pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and cooked through. Remove from heat.
3. 03
   In a large bowl, combine the cooked orzo, shrimp, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, kalamata olives, feta cheese, and parsley.
4. 04
   In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Pour this over the orzo salad and gently toss to combine.
5. 05
   To prepare the dressing, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, honey, minced garlic, and dijon mustard until emulsified.
6. 06
   Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss everything together until well coated.
7. 07
   Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
8. 08
   Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.