This Shrimp Pasta Salad is a light, refreshing, and flavorful dish perfect for picnics, barbecues, or even as a quick lunch or dinner. With tender shrimp, perfectly cooked pasta, and a medley of fresh vegetables tossed in a zesty dressing, this salad is both satisfying and easy to make. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or a main course, this shrimp pasta salad is sure to impress.

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 1 lb shrimp (peeled, deveined, and cooked)
• 8 oz pasta (fusilli, rotini, or bowtie pasta work well)
• 1/2 cup red bell pepper (diced)
• 1/2 cup celery (diced)
• 1/2 cup red onion (finely chopped)
• 1/2 cup cucumber (diced)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped)
• 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
• 1/4 cup black olives (sliced, optional)

For the Dressing:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• 1 teaspoon honey or sugar
• 1 tablespoon white vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning (optional for extra flavor)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Garnish:

• Fresh dill or parsley
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
2. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp

1. If using raw shrimp, cook them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Drain and cool under cold water.
2. If using pre-cooked shrimp, thaw them (if frozen) and pat dry. Set aside.

Step 3: Chop the Vegetables

1. While the pasta and shrimp are cooling, chop the red bell pepper, celery, red onion, cucumber, and parsley. Halve the cherry tomatoes and slice the black olives if using.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream or Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, honey (or sugar), white vinegar, Old Bay seasoning (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 5: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cooked shrimp, chopped vegetables, and parsley.
2. Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss until everything is well coated.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

1. Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
2. Before serving, give the salad a final toss. Garnish with fresh dill or parsley and lemon wedges if desired.

Cook Notes

• Use Fresh or Frozen Shrimp: You can use fresh shrimp, frozen shrimp, or pre-cooked shrimp for this recipe. If using frozen, be sure to thaw them fully before adding to the salad.
• Customize the Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like peas, carrots, or avocado to suit your taste.
• Chill Time: Letting the salad chill for at least 30 minutes enhances the flavors, but it can also be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator.

Variations

• Spicy Shrimp Pasta Salad: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing for a spicy kick.
• Mediterranean Shrimp Pasta Salad: Swap the mayonnaise for olive oil and lemon juice, add feta cheese, and include ingredients like artichoke hearts and Kalamata olives.
• Low-Carb Version: Substitute the pasta with spiralized zucchini or cucumber noodles for a lower-carb version.
• Keto Version: Use a low-carb pasta or zucchini noodles, and opt for a full-fat mayonnaise and sour cream to keep the fat content high.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! This shrimp pasta salad is perfect for making ahead. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just give it a good stir before serving.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While fusilli, rotini, or bowtie pasta work well for this salad, you can use any small pasta shape you like, such as penne or macaroni.

How do I prevent the salad from getting watery?

To avoid excess water, make sure to thoroughly drain and pat dry the shrimp and vegetables before adding them to the salad. You can also lightly salt the cucumbers to draw out moisture, then pat them dry.

What other proteins can I use in this salad?

You can substitute the shrimp with cooked chicken, crab meat, or even canned tuna if you prefer a different protein.

How long will the shrimp pasta salad last in the fridge?

The salad will keep in the fridge for up to 2 days in an airtight container. After that, the texture of the pasta and vegetables may start to soften.

This Shrimp Pasta Salad is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With a creamy, tangy dressing, tender shrimp, and fresh vegetables, it’s the ideal balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or a light meal, this shrimp pasta salad will quickly become a go-to recipe for your family and friends.