Dive into a bowl of sunshine with our Shrimp Pasta Salad Tangy and Creamy! This delightful dish combines the succulent flavors of tender shrimp with perfectly cooked pasta, all enveloped in a zesty, creamy dressing that will tantalize your taste buds. Perfect for summer picnics, potlucks, or a light dinner, this recipe is not only quick to prepare but also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. In just 35 minutes, you can whip up a refreshing salad that’s as vibrant as it is delicious. Ready to impress your friends and family? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- Shrimp, cooked and peeled
- Pasta, cooked
- Mayonnaise
- Greek yogurt
- Lemon juice
- Dill, chopped
- Celery, diced
- Red onion, diced
- Salt
- Pepper
Instructions
- Cook pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking process and cool the pasta quickly.
- If using raw shrimp, cook them in a skillet with a little olive oil over medium-high heat until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. If using pre-cooked shrimp, ensure they are thawed and pat dry with paper towels.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, fresh lemon juice, chopped dill, salt, and pepper to create the creamy dressing. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
- Dice the celery and red onion into small, uniform pieces to ensure even distribution throughout the salad.
- Add the cooked and cooled pasta, cooked shrimp, diced celery, and red onion to the bowl with the creamy dressing.
- Gently fold all ingredients together, ensuring the pasta and shrimp are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together and chill thoroughly.
- Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed.
- Garnish with extra chopped dill and serve cold as a refreshing summer salad.
Tips
- Perfect Pasta: To ensure your pasta has the ideal texture, cook it al dente according to the package instructions. Rinse it under cold water immediately after draining to stop the cooking process and keep it from becoming mushy.
- Shrimp Selection: If you’re using raw shrimp, choose medium to large shrimp for a satisfying bite. If you opt for pre-cooked shrimp, make sure they are fully thawed and patted dry to avoid excess moisture in your salad.
- Flavor Boost: Enhance the dressing by adding a splash of hot sauce or a pinch of garlic powder for an extra layer of flavor that complements the tanginess of the lemon juice.
- Chill Time: Allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This resting time lets the flavors meld beautifully, making every bite even more delicious.
- Garnish with Freshness: Just before serving, sprinkle some extra chopped dill or even a few lemon slices on top for a pop of color and a fresh aroma that will entice your guests.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 180mg
