Lemon Shrimp & Orzo Salad

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is lemon shrimp orzo salad healthy?

  Besides being delicious, this salad offers a ton of nutrition. The shrimp provide protein and omega-3s. And although they are high in cholesterol, this has minimal impact on your blood cholesterol. The whole-wheat orzo and sugar snap peas provide complex carbohydrates and fiber. All three of these primary ingredients, along with other ingredients, like the olive oil, shallot, lemon and dill, provide a variety of vitamins and minerals, as well as antioxidants (even the shrimp!).

• Can I make Lemon Shrimp & Orzo Salad ahead of time?

  Absolutely. It's good for up to one day in an airtight container in the fridge. Because you are preparing the salad the night before, it will give all of the flavors a chance to integrate and make this salad even tastier. When it's time to serve, you may have to add a little more olive oil and lemon juice because the orzo will absorb the dressing. Also, remember that salads like this should only be left out of the refrigerator for two hours at most, preferably in a shaded environment. If it's a hot day (temps nearing 90°F), put the dish back in the fridge or cold cooler within an hour.

• What should I serve with this salad?

  Anything from the grill would be a complement: meats, seafood, veggies, and tofu. Recipes that include skewers are a nice way to add various flavors and keep a meal simple. You can create a variety of skewers that appeal to both meat eaters and vegetarians simultaneously. You can make them look fancy, too, by alternating colors and a variation of sliced and diced foods. Potato salads would be an excellent addition. For dessert, skewered fruit can be a treat, as can s'mores and other warm-weather favorites.

  
  

• What else can I do with orzo pasta?

  This Italian staple is so versatile. Orzo is about the same size as rice but creamier and has a shorter cooking time. You can use it in the same way as rice. This shrimp and orzo salad is a fine example of using this pasta in a cold salad. It's also a favorite in soups, grain bowls, pilafs and casseroles. If you fry orzo, it will brown and crisp like fried rice.