Shrimp Pasta Salad

Shrimp Pasta Salad is a light, flavorful, and refreshing dish that’s perfect for summer picnics, BBQs, or quick lunches. With tender shrimp, pasta, crunchy veggies, and a zesty lemon-Dijon dressing, it’s a delightful combination that can be prepared in no time. This dish is not only delicious when freshly made but tastes even better the next day, making it an ideal make-ahead recipe for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Shrimp Pasta Salad is the perfect balance of lightness and flavor. The creamy dressing made with mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, and Dijon mustard gives the salad a tangy richness that complements the shrimp and fresh vegetables. The addition of lemon juice and zest brings a bright, citrusy twist, while the herbs add freshness and depth. It’s versatile, easy to make, and can be served as a side dish or a light main course. The best part? It’s even better the next day, making it a perfect dish to prepare in advance.

Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons mayonnaise

• 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt

• 2 tablespoons lemon juice

• 1 tablespoon lemon zest

• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard

• 1 1/2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives

• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

• 2 lbs cooked medium shrimp, peeled, deveined, and tails removed

• 1 pound pasta (cooked, drained, and cooled)

• 1 red bell pepper, diced

• 2 celery stalks, chopped

• 1/2 cup frozen peas, thawed

• 1/4 cup red onion, diced

• 3 tablespoons fresh chopped dill

• 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a medium bowl, stir together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, chives, salt, and pepper until well combined.

2. Chop the shrimp into thirds.

3. In a large bowl, toss together the shrimp, pasta, red bell pepper, celery, peas, and red onion.

4. Gently fold in the dressing, making sure not to break up the shrimp too much, until everything is evenly coated.

5. Stir in the fresh dill and parsley. Cover the salad and chill for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

6. Before serving, sprinkle with extra herbs and serve with lemon wedges, if desired.

Servings and timing

• Prep Time: 30 minutes

• Cook Time: 8 minutes

• Total Time: 1 hour 38 minutes

• Servings: 12 servings

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Skip the shrimp and substitute with grilled or roasted vegetables like zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers for a delicious vegetarian option.

• Add Cheese: For an extra creamy texture, add crumbled feta or grated Parmesan cheese.

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing for a spicy twist.

• Herb Variations: Use other fresh herbs like basil or thyme to customize the flavor profile.

• Swap Pasta: Use gluten-free pasta or whole wheat pasta for a healthier or gluten-free option.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover shrimp pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

• Reheating: This salad is best served cold, so there’s no need to reheat. However, you can take it out of the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving if you prefer.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp works great. Just be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before using it in the salad.

How long should I chill the salad?

Chill the salad for at least 15 minutes to let the flavors meld, but for the best taste, let it sit in the fridge for an hour or more.

Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?

Yes, you can use regular yogurt, but Greek yogurt adds a thicker, creamier texture to the dressing.

How do I prevent the pasta from sticking together?

To prevent the pasta from sticking, rinse it under cold water after draining to stop the cooking process and keep the pasta from clumping together.

Can I add other vegetables to this salad?

Absolutely! You can add veggies like cucumbers, carrots, or tomatoes to enhance the freshness and crunch.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, this salad is perfect for making ahead. It tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any type of pasta you like, such as rotini, penne, or fusilli. Just ensure it’s cooked and cooled before adding to the salad.

How can I make the salad more filling?

To make the salad more filling, you can add additional protein, like grilled chicken, or serve it with some crusty bread on the side.

Can I use a different dressing?

Yes, you can use a store-bought dressing like a classic vinaigrette, ranch, or any of your favorite creamy dressings, though homemade is recommended for the best flavor.

How do I store the shrimp pasta salad?

Store the shrimp pasta salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Make sure it’s well sealed to keep it fresh.

Conclusion

Shrimp Pasta Salad is a fresh, flavorful, and versatile dish that’s perfect for any summer gathering, BBQ, or even a quick lunch. With tender shrimp, al dente pasta, fresh veggies, and a zesty lemon-Dijon dressing, it’s a dish that delivers a burst of flavors in every bite. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy days when you need a delicious and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed right away or the next day. This Shrimp Pasta Salad is a must-try!

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